Melbourne Official Visitors Guide - Spring 2017

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE

Melbourne Spring 2017

What’s on

Sporting spectacles and fabulous festivals

Shop

Get spring racing ready

Coupons

Discounts for the city’s best experiences

National Gallery of Victoria The House of Dior: Seventy Years of Haute Couture

M E L B O U R N E T H E AT R E C O M P A N Y

DRAMA. LIVES. HERE.

MAKE A DATE WITH MELBOURNE’S HOME OF THEATRE. SEE WHAT’S ON AT MTC.COM.AU. Marina Prior in Noël Coward’s Hay Fever. Playing 23 Sept – 28 Oct.

MTC is a department of the University of Melbourne

9 Melbourne

Fashion Week

43 Where to eat and

drink this spring Mahalo Poké, Richmond

Inside

4

Welcome to Melbourne

6

What’s on

8

Melbourne in full bloom

16 Laneway discovery

18 Melbourne laneways map

20 Melbourne precincts

22

Itineraries

26 My Melbourne with Neil Perkins

28

Shop

39

Eat & drink

52 Melbourne Official Visitor

53

Arts & culture

69

See & do

96

Neighbourhoods

102 Melbourne neighbourhoods map

Guide reader survey

111 Regional Victoria

120 Regional Victoria map 129 V/ Line network map

131 Useful information

96 Discover surprises

in the suburbs

Cover image: Dior, Paris (fashion house) Raf Simons (designer) autumn−winter 2012 haute couture collection Photo © Patrick Demarchelier/Licensed by Art+Commerce

138 Melbourne tram network map

140 Victorian train network map

144 Traveller tips

148 Frequently asked questions

150 Advertiser index

151 Accommodation index

152 Inner Melbourne map

154 Melbourne city map 156 Coupons

3

Message from the Minister

Sport, culture and fashion are ic celebrated this spring at the icon ing Melbourne Cup Carnival, bring reds together the world’s best thoroughb and most stylish spectators.

, will Rugby League World Cup 2017 wide and far from rs playe see fans and ourne, while Melb in here right n actio ss enjoy world-cla s of Haute Couture will The House of Dior: Seventy Year rs in Australia’s visito and s local ht delig impress and culture capital. on of the arts, and The Melbourne Festival, a celebrati Melbourne’s off top e Glob up Shakespeare’s Popg. sprin this ings offer of list e essiv impr everyone and the best Victoria will have something for you to come along and e invit of everything this spring. I . offer to has state t grea our enjoy all The Hon John Eren MP r Events Minister for Tourism and Majo

Message from the Lord

Mayor

Spring is Melbourne’s pre mier events season when we showca se some of the elements for which we are famous: arts, sport, music, culture and design.

Huge crowds of punters , fashionistas and families enjoy our wor ld renowned Spring Racing Car nival every year which genera tes an incredible buzz throughout our great city .

Other highlights includ e Melbourne Fashion Week, a stylish celebra tion of established and emerging designers and Melbourne Music Week which features a packed program of local and international performers .

Don’t forget to visit our great eateries for sustenance and our div erse shopping scene for gifts to take home. Enjoy!

Robert Doyle AC Lord Mayor

4

Welcome to

Melbourne

Arts & culture

From grand theatres, museums and galleries to laneway street art and vibrant cultural festivals, Melbourne is the place to get your fix of art, design, music and live shows.

Outdoors

Within the leafy city limits there are beautiful botanical gardens and public parks.

Explore Port Phillip Bay’s sheltered beaches, take a boat cruise on the Yarra River or follow a walking track along the water’s edge.

Sport

Melbourne lives and breathes sport. A jam-packed calendar of high-profile sporting events runs year round, with spectators able to get up close to the action at our world-class arenas.

Shopping

Welcome to Melbourne

Visitors to Melbourne are spoiled for choice with sporting spectacles, art and culture attractions, stylish shopping, beautiful arcades and laneways, and picturesque public parks.

Food & wine

Melbourne is renowned for its flair for food, acclaimed chefs and cool bar scene.

The city boasts more than 3000 restaurants, cafes and bars representing about 75 different ethnic cuisines.

Belle's Hot Chicken

Caption

Melbourne is a favourite destination for those with a passion for fashion. The city’s shopping precincts cater to all tastes and budgets with luxe designer boutiques, large department stores and local artisan markets.

5 5

What’s on

Melbourne Cup Carnival Getty Images

On now

September

Until 3 September

1–8 September

Melbourne Writers Festival Various locations across Melbourne w mwf.com.au Until 15 October

Bug Lab: Little Bugs, Super Powers

Melbourne Museum w museumsvictoria.com.au/bug-lab Until 29 October

Wallace & Gromit and Friends: The Magic of Aardman ACMI w acmi.net.au

Until 7 November

Melbourne Fashion Week

Melbourne Town Hall w melbourne.vic.gov.au/mfw 2 September – 25 November

Spring Racing Carnival Various venues across Victoria w springracingcarnival.com.au 5 September

2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Asian Qualifier: Socceroos vs Thailand

Melbourne Rectangular Stadium (AAMI Park) w socceroos.com.au/tickets

The House of Dior: Seventy Years of Haute Couture

7–23 September

NGV International w ngv.vic.gov.au

Melbourne Cricket Ground and Etihad Stadium w afl.com.au

Until 28 January

14 September – 1 October

Her Majesty’s Theatre w aladdinthemusical.com.au

Various locations across Melbourne w melbournefringe.com.au

Aladdin the Musical

6

Toyota AFL Final Series

Melbourne Fringe

Melbourne Music Week

Bug Lab: Little Bugs, Super Powers

17 September

Mexican Festival Federation Square w mexfest.com.au

21 September – 12 November

Pop-up Globe

Sidney Myer Music Bowl w popupglobe.com.au 23 September – 3 October

Royal Melbourne Show Melbourne Showgrounds w royalshow.com.au 30 September

Toyota AFL Grand Final Melbourne Cricket Ground w afl.com.au

October 4–22 October

Melbourne Festival

Various locations across Melbourne w festival.melbourne 14 October

Diwali 2017

Federation Square w celebrateindia.org.au

Rugby League World Cup 2017: Australia vs England Magi Haroum

15 October

Spring Fling Street Festival Errol Street, North Melbourne w springflingstreetfestival.org.au 20–22 October

Michelin® Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix 2017

Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit w motogp.com.au

For more information on what’s happening in Melbourne whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au

28 October

2017 QBE Insurance Australian FIM Speedway Grand Prix Etihad Stadium w speedwaygp.com 28–29 October

Fast5 Netball World Series Hisense Arena w fast5worldseries.com.au

15–25 November

Opera Australia’s The Merry Widow

State Theatre, Arts Centre Melbourne w opera.org.au 16–18 November

Harry Potter™ Live in Concert with MSO Plenary, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre w mso.com.au

22 October

November

17–25 November

Wonderland Speigletent, Docklands w docklandsbluesmusicfestival .com.au

4–11 November

Various locations across Melbourne w melbourne.vic.gov.au/mmw

Docklands Blues Music Festival

22 October

Carlton Italian Festa Corner Lygon Street and Argyle Square, Carlton w carltonitalianfesta.org.au 27 October

Rugby League World Cup 2017: Australia vs England

Melbourne Rectangular Stadium (AAMI Park) w rlwc2017.com

Melbourne Cup Carnival

Flemington Racecourse w flemington.com.au/melbourne cupcarnival 5–12 November

International Festival of Hockey

Melbourne Music Week

19 November

Rugby League World Cup 2017: Quarter Final Melbourne Rectangular Stadium (AAMI Park) w rlwc2017.com

State Netball Hockey Centre and Bendigo Hockey Complex w hockey.org.au 12 November

Polish Festival @ Federation Square Federation Square w polishfestival.com.au

7

Welcome to Melbourne

Pop-up Globe

Melbourne in

full bloom

Melbourne is bursting with art, fashion, music, sport and festivals for every taste this spring.

Melbourne Cup Carnival Getty Images

Fillies, fashion and festivities

Pure couture

Get trackside at Flemington Racecourse for all the action and glamour of the Melbourne Cup Carnival (4–11 November), encompassing AAMI Victoria Derby Day (4 November), Kennedy Oaks Day (9 November) and Emirates Stakes Day (11 November).

Derby Day sees black and white fashions take centre stage, Oaks Day is affectionately known as Ladies Day, and Stakes Day sees families and little ones get involved in the trackside action.

The Australian premiere exhibition provides a fascinating insight into the exquisite skill, craftsmanship and hundreds of hours of labour applied to each garment. As well as opulent gowns and outfits exemplifying Dior’s New Look silhouette, the exhibition features historic photography and design sketches.

A spectacular celebration of sport and fashion, the Spring Racing Carnival (2 September – 25 November) captivates the entire city and further afield with more than 50 race meets across metropolitan and regional Victoria.

Crowds are flocking to NGV International for The House of Dior: Seventy Years of Haute Couture (until 7 November) to fawn over more than 140 garments created by the prestigious French fashion house between 1947 and 2017.

w ngv.vic.gov.au

The focal point of the Carnival is Emirates Melbourne Cup Day (7 November), the world’s richest handicap turf race, known for its frivolity and party atmosphere.

See the magnificent thoroughbreds thunder down the straight, spot celebrities in the Birdcage and admire the meticulously manicured roses. w springracingcarnival.com.au w flemington.com.au/melbournecupcarnival

8

The House of Dior: Seventy Years of Haute Couture

Dress to impress

Reinforcing Melbourne’s status as the nation’s style capital, Melbourne Fashion Week (1–8 September) showcases the latest creations from the city’s top designers in runway shows and imaginative events. Find out what’s trending for spring and summer when the hottest brands unveil their ready-towear collections.

w melbourne.vic.gov.au/mfw Opposite page bottom: Christian Dior, Paris (fashion house) | Raf Simons (designer), Look 37, evening dress and Look 38, evening dress, autumn-winter 2013–14 haute couture collection.

Photo © Patrick Demarchelier/Licensed by Art+Commerce.

Models: Anastasia Ivanova, Premier Model Management and Marte Mei van Haaster, Viva Paris.

Carl Navè Melbourne bespoke tailor You could say Carl Navè was destined to go into the rag trade — his Italian grandparents were both tailors and dressmakers, with Nonna teaching him to sew at age six.

Fast-forward 30 years and Carl, who hails from Williamstown, is one of the most indemand men’s tailors, crafting suits for businessmen, politicians and celebrities.

Welcome to Melbourne

The Emporium Melbourne Opening Night Runway (1 September) — free to the public — will see Little Bourke Street converted into an open-air runway. Aspiring designers and fashion bloggers can also gain tips from the industry’s most talented players during workshops and forums. There are parties aplenty, as well as pop-up bars and DJ sets.

In the know

Carl is taking tailoring to an exciting new, high-tech level by creating digital patterns that take into account each client’s size, shape and posture, as well as their preference for everything from lapel style to positioning of pockets.

“I believe Melbourne’s four-seasons-in-oneday weather is why we’re the most stylish city in Australia,” says Carl. “It allows us to experiment with layering and textures, as well as accessories, such as scarves and gloves.”

Here are some of Carl’s favourite places:

Cafe

The coffee at Neapoli in Russell Place is great.

Bar

My favourite spot for a killer martini would have to be Siglo Bar.

Restaurant

Hands down, the best spaghetti marinara in town is at The European.

Event

I’m an organiser for The Festival of Steve, a design and lifestyle festival that supports small businesses within the City of Melbourne.

Melbourne Fashion Week

For more fashion and shopping inspiration, see the Shop section on page 28.

Follow Carl on: w carlnave.com.au /carlnavetailor @cnavetailor

9

Share your Melbourne moment Tag #melbmoment to share your favourite city experience with others.

Melbourne Music Week

City rhythms

Celebrating the city's status as the live music capital, Melbourne Music Week (17–25 November) sees hundreds of artists perform at various venues, including many you'd least expect to see a gig or show, such as historic buildings or on public transport. The program of events features a diverse range of artists and musical styles, as well as films, workshops and virtual reality experiences. w melbourne.vic.gov.au/mmw

Artistic pursuits

Melbourne Festival (4–22 October) is Australia’s leading international arts festival, with dance, theatre, music, circus, visual arts, multimedia and outdoor events at venues across the city.

A program highlight will be Tree of Codes (17–21 October), a stunning collaboration between choreographer Wayne McGregor, visual artist Olafur Eliasson, musician Jamie xx and the Paris Opera Ballet, based on the novel of the same name by Jonathan Safran Foer.

Melbourne Festival

10

w festival.melbourne

Fringe binge

Revered for its rampant creativity and boundarypushing artistry, Melbourne Fringe (14 September – 1 October) is a jam-packed program of thoughtprovoking shows, events and exhibitions spanning theatre, comedy, dance, visual art, circus, music and more. Among the hundreds of works and thousands of performers from Australia and beyond, there’s something for everyone at this independent festival. w melbournefringe.com.au

The Melbourne Writers Festival (until 3 September) will appeal to avid readers, budding writers and anyone who loves big ideas. As well as talks by international and Australian writers, there’ll be readings, debates, children’s and teen activities, a festival club and bookshop. There’s something on the program for all ages and more than a quarter of the events are free. w mwf.com.au

Festival of lights

Be immersed in Indian culture at the vibrant Diwali 2017 (14 October), featuring traditional arts, films, music, dance and brilliant fireworks at Federation Square. Commonly known as the ‘festival of lights’, Hindus traditionally regard Diwali as a celebration of inner light and belief that good will triumph over evil. w celebrateindia.org.au

The bard at the bowl

Attention festival-goers: seek out these great new bars for a pre- or post-show drink.

01 Holey Moley

Sip on a cocktail while practising your putt at this kitsch mini-golf bar in Little Bourke Street spanning two levels and three nine-hole courses. w holeymoley.com.au/melbourne

Welcome to Melbourne

Inside word

New in town

02 Longsong

Spark up with a zesty Asian-inspired cocktail and a tasty bite at Longrain’s new sister venue, one storey up from the popular Little Bourke Street restaurant. w longrain.com.au/melbourne

03 Melbourne Whisky Room

Upstairs from Whisky and Alement, this Russell Street bar’s shelves are laden with quality malts from across the world, including rare, vintage and independent labels. w whiskyandale.com.au

04 Lee Ho Fook

The ground level bar at this mod-Chinese diner in Duckboard Place offers an expansive wine list, including high-end vintages, as well as crazy-cool cocktails. If you like a punchy pineapple flavour, order the Fook‘n’Ease. w leehofook.com.au

Be transported to 1614 at a staging of William Shakespeare’s As You Like It, Much Ado About Nothing, Henry V and Othello in a full-scale temporary replica of London’s Globe Theatre at King’s Domain, next to Sidney Myer Music Bowl, during Pop-up Globe (21 September – 12 November). Expect magnificent costuming, special effects and thrilling action, including a dramatic sword fight in Henry V. Melbourne audiences will also be treated to a specially commissioned new show, Around the Globe in 60 Minutes, recounting the triumphs and disasters experienced during construction of the second Globe Theatre in England in 1599. w popupglobe.com.au

Holey Moley

11

2017 Rugby World Cup

Footy’s grandest feat

Two-wheel action

Be part of the build-up to the big day in 2017 by securing a seat at either the MCG or Etihad Stadium during the Toyota AFL Finals Series (7–23 September).

w motogp.com.au

Aussie Rules was invented in Melbourne some 160 years ago and remains the talk of the town throughout the 26 rounds of competition and finals leading up to the Toyota AFL Grand Final (30 September).

Head 90 minutes out of the city to Phillip Island’s stunning coastal racing circuit for the Michelin® Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix 2017 (20–22 October). Top riders in three bike classes will tackle the challenging track to take out honours on the podium. A popular place for fans is Phil’s Clubhouse on Turn 10, where there are picnic tables, a bar and live music.

The Friday before the Grand Final is a public holiday in Victoria, allowing AFL fanatics to take part in the Toyota Grand Final Parade (29 September) through the CBD. w afl.com.au

International rugby rivalry

The 2017 Rugby League World Cup will see the world’s best players showcase their supreme skills and strength in 28 games over five weeks in pursuit of the Paul Barrière Trophy. The series kicks off in Melbourne with Australia vs England (27 October) at Melbourne Rectangular Stadium (AAMI Park), then returns four weeks later for a quarter final (19 November). w rlwc2017.com

12

Toyota AFL FInals Series AFL Media

In the know

Kate Moloney Melbourne Vixens netballer

Fast5 Netball World Series

High-speed netball

It’s netball, but not as you know it. The Fast5 Netball World Series (28–29 October) at Hisense Arena has been likened to cricket’s Big Bash League, with the modified game format seeing five-player teams battle it out in shortened quarters with adjusted rules.

The action is fast and fierce, with teams representing Australia, New Zealand, England, Jamaica, Malawi and South Africa competing in six games across the two-day series. During breaks in play, spectators are kept enthralled with pumping music, dance cams and costume competitions. w fast5worldseries.com.au

Hockey’s big shots

See some of the world’s finest players display their skills and speed at the International Festival of Hockey. Australia will take on India, Malaysia and New Zealand over one exciting week of competition at Melbourne’s State Netball Hockey Centre (8–12 November) and the Bendigo Hockey Complex (5–6 November). w hockey.org.au

Here are some of Kate’s favourite places:

Cafe

I spend most of my days at Urban Projuice in Albert Park, as it’s just around the corner from the Victorian Institute of Sport.

Restaurant

For tasty food and good Instagram fodder, you can’t go past Chin Chin.

Event

Hands down, the Australian Open. It is summer in Melbourne when you’re sitting at Olympic Park watching a big game of tennis.

Treat

For some ‘me time’, you can’t beat Peninsula Hot Springs on the Mornington Peninsula.

Place

I love watching the Richmond Tigers play footy (AFL) at the mighty MCG. Follow Kate on: @katemoloney_ w melbournevixens.com.au

International Festival of Hockey

Chin Chin

13

Welcome to Melbourne

Twenty-four-year-old Kate Moloney is known for her determined demeanor as a wing defence and centre player for the Melbourne Vixens. Kate grew up in Diamond Creek in Melbourne’s north and loves her home city’s sporting culture and coffee.

Docklands blues

Get yourself to Docklands Blue Music Festival (22 October) at the pop-up Wonderland Speigeltent Blues Garden for a fun day of non-stop music by an all Australian band line up. Kicking off at 11am, catch the sounds of Dreamboogie, Sweet Felicia and the Tradies, Nick Charles, Catfish Voodoo, The Hillbilly Goats and more. There will also be smoking barbeque food trucks and licensed bars.

Entry to the festival is free. w docklandsbluesmusicfestival.com.au

Sorcery and symphony in sync

Harry Potter™ Live in Concert Wallace & Gromit and Friends: The Magic of Aardman © Aardman Studios 2016

Music-loving muggles will be spellbound when the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO) provides live accompaniment for two Harry Potter films at Plenary within Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The MSO will play the stirring score for Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone™ Live in Concert (16–18 November) and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets™ Live in Concert (17–18 November). w mso.com.au

Quirky characters

Animation enthusiasts of all ages will be in their element at Wallace & Gromit and Friends: The Magic of Aardman (until 29 October) at ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image). See how the creative geniuses from Britain’s Aardman Studios, who gave us Chicken Run and Shaun the Sheep, bring quirky claymation characters to life. This fascinating exhibition comprises hundreds of sketches, storyboards, plasticine models and film shorts.

Aladdin the Musical Deen Van Meer ©Disney

w acmi.net.au

Pure genie-us

Make sure you catch Aladdin the Musical (until 28 January) at Her Majesty’s Theatre before the magic carpet takes flight to its next city. Based on the 1992 animated Disney classic and featuring its memorable songs, the Broadway production is being touted as one of the largest musicals ever mounted in Australia, boasting a cast of 37 performers, 337 costumes featuring 500,000 Swarovski crystals, and 30 tonnes of ‘flying’ scenery. w aladdinthemusical.com.au

14

Family day in the city Here are our top tips for a fun-filled day trip that will please all members of the family.

01 City Circle Tram

Welcome to Melbourne

Jump aboard a free City Circle Tram (number 35) for a loop of the city, listening to the audio commentary about the landmarks and major attractions along the route. w ptv.vic.gov.au

02 Melbourne Museum

Unearth the secret lives of insects at Bug Lab: Little Bugs, Super Powers (until 15 October) and pop in to see Australia’s legendary racehorse Phar Lap. w museumsvictoria.com.au/bug-lab

03 Hopetoun Tea Rooms

Boasting possibly the city’s most photographed shop window, this elegant cafe in the heritage Block Arcade has been a popular meeting place for generations of Melburnians. w hopetountearooms.com.au

04 ArtVo Fitzroy Gardens

Gardens galore

Right in the heart of the city, Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria's Melbourne Gardens is fabulous during spring. Pack a picnic, explore the Ornamental Lake with Punting on the Lake, or tuck into a tasty tiffin (lunch in a box) or tasting plate prepared by Jardin Tan.

Take stacks of selfies doing adventurous sports or exploring imaginary lands at ArtVo, an immersive ‘trick art’ gallery in Docklands featuring more than 100 larger-than-life 3D installations. w artvo.com.au

For 50 years, the famous floral clock in Queen Victoria Gardens has been delighting Melburnians and city visitors. Twice a year up to 10,000 seedlings are carefully planted and tended to create the living timepiece. Another historic floral attraction is The Conservatory within Fitzroy Gardens, which is also the setting for Cooks’ Cottage. w rbg.vic.gov.au w puntingonthelake.com.au w fitzroygardens.com

Melbourne Museum

15

Melbourne Street Tours

Laneway discovery Find cosy bars, eclectic boutiques and colourful street art tucked away in the city’s cobblestone laneways and heritage arcades.

16

Word on the street Carly (31) from Blackburn

Welcome to Melbourne

Centre Place epitomises Melbourne’s laneway culture. It has all the things the city is known for — great coffee, food, shopping, street art, buskers and plenty of people-watching — all squeezed into one strip.

Royal Arcade Robert Blackburn

Bars with charm

Shopping gems

w baramericano.com w section8.com.au

w royalarcade.com.au w theblock.com.au a Cathedral Arcade, 37 Swanston Street

Whether your tipple of choice is a fancy cocktail, aged whisky or cold ale, there’s a multitude of bars tucked down the city’s laneways. It’s standing room only at Bar Americano, a pint size venue pumping out serious cocktails and strong coffee.

Section 8 in Tattersalls Lane is a buzzing open-air bar comprising a pimped-out shipping container and furniture made from recycled materials.

Bar Americano

Some of the best discoveries — and purchases — you’ll make in Melbourne will be in the hidden arcades. Historic Royal Arcade is home to a delightful mix of specialist stores, including Koko Black and habbot. Bask in Block Arcade’s old world glamour while browsing the boutiques and jewellery stores. Admire art deco Cathedral Arcade jam-packed with trendy stores, such as Kuwaii and Obus.

Heart of street art

Melbourne’s impressive street art is internationally renowned.

Soak up the colours, ideas and energy of the huge murals adorning Hosier Lane, Croft Alley and Duckboard Place. Take a self-guided expedition or join a Melbourne Street Art Tour with a local expert. w melbournestreettours.com

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LA TR OBE ST

John Warkentin

Knox Pl

Melbourne Central Station

Guildford Ln

Drewery Pl

Melbourne Central

Sniders Ln

Drewery Ln

352

E LI Z AB ETH ST

Hardware St

01 Whitehart

239

Caledonian Ln

Driver Ln

Emporium Melbourne

Postal Ln

259

Whitehart Ln

01

Somerset Pl

Rankins Ln

Niagara Ln Warburton Ln

Racing Club Ln

Lt Bourke St

Hardware Ln

w whitehartbar.com.au

Hardware Ln

Seek out this new laneway bar occupying a two-storey shipping container and surrounded by brilliant art in a disused carpark.

Goldie Pl

LON SDA LE ST Q UE E N ST

WI LLI AM ST

Finlay Av

Lt Lonsdale St

Bourke St Mall

Block Arc

Howey Pl

Dame Edna Pl

Presgrave

220

342

Manchester Ln

City Library

Scott Al

Centre Pl

Bligh Pl

57

02

Degraves St

Bond St

Flinders Ln

Fulham Pl

53

COLLIN S ST

w zomp.com.au

Immigration Museum

Block Pl

Equitable Pl

Bank Pl

Market St

Put your best foot forward in a pair of latest fashion shoes from local and international brands at Zomp’s flagship store in the CBD.

Union Ln

Royal Arcade

Carson Pl

The Causeway

Lt Collins St

02 Zomp

The Walk Arc

McKillop St

151

BOURK E ST

Cathedral Ar

FLIN DE RS ST

18

Flinders St Station

E X H I B I TI O N ST

S PRI NG ST

laneways

R US S ELL ST

180

56

Federation Square

Liverpool St

Punch Ln Crossley St

153

Cohen Pl Paynes Pl

Market Ln

2

Windsor Pl

Meyers Pl

75

Alfred Pl

03 MoVida Next Door

Savour superb tapas created by esteemed chef Frank Camorra — no reservation required.

George Pde ACDC Ln

w movida.com.au

Duckboard Pl

Malthouse Ln

03

Parliament Station

TRAMS

120

Rutledge Ln

St Paul’s Cathedral

Chinese Museum

Melbourne Pl

Melbourne Town Hall

City Square

Croft Al

Corrs Ln Coverlid Pl

180

Smythe Ln

Russell Pl

Rainbow Al

La Trobe Pl

Bullens Ln

Chinatown

Waratah Pl

Heffernan Ln

Celestial Av

Tattersalls Ln

Greek Precinct

Oliver Ln

r

Albert Coates Ln

Hosier Ln

0

Red Cape Ln

Regent Pl

e Pl

State Library Victoria

SWANSTON ST

Melbourne

Bennetts Ln

l

3 minutes’ walk per block

19

National Gallery of Victoria

Melbourne

precincts Delve into the city’s diverse precincts that offer a feast for the senses.

Word on the street Jenna (33) from Belmont My girlfriends and I organise day trips to South Wharf twice a year, so we can hit the shops at DFO South Wharf. We always make time for a lovely long lunch at Melbourne Public. There has been some excited chatter among the ladies about making our next visit an overnight stay at Pan Pacific Melbourne in South Wharf.

Southbank

Take a leisurely walk across Princess Bridge to Southbank, the art lovers’ precinct whose residents include Arts Centre Melbourne and National Gallery of Victoria. Check out a live show or exhibition that captures your imagination before devouring spicy Thai dishes and tangy cocktails at Crown’s Long Chim. w artscentremelbourne.com.au w ngv.vic.gov.au w longchimmelb.com

20

Federation Square

w dfo.com.au/south-wharf w melbournepublic.com.au w panpacific.com

Explore Fed Square, a buzzing hub for arts, culture, dining and entertainment. Pop into Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia to peruse the huge collection of Australian art before heading down the steps to Federation Wharf for share plates on the water’s edge at Pilgrim Bar. End your outing on a sweet note with mouth-watering sorbet from Popstic Ice-cream and Sorbet. w ngv.vic.gov.au w pilgrimbar.com.au w popsticicecream.com.au

Docklands

Docklands is the perfect destination for a date, starting with a hit of illuminated mini golf at GlowGolf Docklands.

Tuck into a burger at nearby Steakhouse 66, then step back in time to the 80s and catch a movie at Rooftop Drive-in Cinema. w glowgolf.com.au w steakhouse66.com.au w rooftopdrive-in.com.au

Chinatown

Welcome to Melbourne

Experience the buzzing atmosphere of Chinatown with its authentic and modern Asian cuisine, karaoke venues, bars and boutiques. Stop by the Museum of Chinese Australian History for an insight into the history and culture of Chinese immigrants to Melbourne. Take a look at the colourful Modern Folk Art: Peasant Paintings by Shao Qihua (7 November – 21 December) exhibition in the Contemporary Art Space on level two. Finish the day with dim sum at Tim Ho Wan or ShanDong MaMa in Mid City Arcade. w chinesemuseum.com.au w timhowan.com.au f /shandongmama

North Melbourne and Kensington

Grown-up gamers, muster your mates and head to North Melbourne’s Zero Latency to prevent a zombie invasion! Immersive virtual reality technology will see you transported to an apocalyptic city where your team is pitted against flesh-hungry zombies.

Afterwards, take a tram or train to Henry St Brewhouse in Kensington for an ale and battle debrief with your comrades. w zerolatencyvr.com w henrystbrewhouse.com.au Bar Americano

Did you know?

Pidepipò, Carlton

Greek precinct

Discover Lonsdale Street, the city’s hub for Hellenic culture, food and entertainment. Tuck into a classic Cypriot banquet at Tsindos before joining a Melbourne Ancient Greece Tour with Walking Tours of Melbourne to learn how many of the city’s grandest buildings have been influenced by Greek culture. Head to St Kilda’s Astor Theatre or Palace Cinema Como to see a foreign flick during the Greek Film Festival (6 October – 27 November). w tsindosrestaurant.com.au w melbournewalks.com.au w greekfilmfestival.com.au

When the first Italian food shops in Lygon Street began importing olive oil, Australians were shocked — they’d only ever used it for medicinal purposes.

Lygon Street

Savour la dolce vita (the sweet life) in Little Italy on Carlton’s Lygon Street. Fill up on a delicious bowl of pasta at Tiamo before taking a stroll along the strip. Pop into Pidapipò for mouth-watering gelato or browse the massive selection of books at Readings. w tiamo.com.au w pidapipo.com.au w readings.com.au/carlton

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Punting on the Lake

Itineraries Let your hobby, tastebuds or aspirations direct how you spend a day or night out in the city.

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Itineraries

Alpha60

Lit lovers’ hit list

Bookworms can enjoy a blissful day indulging their love of literature, beginning with a free guided tour of the magnificent domed Latrobe Reading Room and Mirrors of the world: books and ideas exhibition (until 31 December) at the State Library Victoria. Grab a bite at The Moat, the cosy bluestone restaurant tucked beneath the library. Next up is the Wheeler Centre (also located within the State Library Victoria complex) for an inspiring guest speaker presentation. w slv.vic.gov.au w themoat.com.au w wheelercentre.com

Cheers to beers

Melbourne has microbreweries popping up everywhere, but start your brewery crawl on a tour with the biggest name in Aussie beer at Carlton Brewhouse in Abbotsford. Meander a few blocks to Moon Dog Brewing for pizza and a pint of cheekily named ale, such as Ogden Nash’s Pash Rash. Proceed to Gipps Street, Collingwood, for a lazy lager at Stomping Ground Beer Hall (enter via Islington Street). w carltonbrewhouse.com.au w moondogbrewing.com.au w stompingground.beer

Fashion fix

Flinders Lane is a hot spot for fashion, art and jewellery created by local designers and artists.

Begin browsing Craft’s new digs in Watson Place (just off Flinders Lane), where you’ll discover the works of contemporary craftspeople whose skills span jewellery, textiles, glass, ceramics, mixed media and more. Wander down to e.g.etal to peruse modern jewellery and accessories made by talented Melburnians.

Also in Flinders Lane are homegrown fashion labels Alpha60 and LIFEwithBIRD. w craft.org.au w egetal.com.au w alpha60.com w lifewithbird.com

e.g.etal

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Bombini Buzz

Health hubs

Spend a day nurturing your mind, body and complexion, starting at South Yarra’s Gravity Cryo, Melbourne’s first whole-body cryotherapy centre. Exposure to sub-zero temperatures is said to improve immunity, sleep quality, collagen production and muscle recovery. Take a number 78 tram down Chapel Street to stop 46 for a delicious vegan super food salad at Supercharger. Catch a number 6 tram down High Street, getting off at stop 44, a few steps away from Gravity Float. Feel tension melt away as you float in a pod filled with a concentrated Epsom salt solution. You’ll leave feeling rejuvenated, both physically and emotionally. w gravitycryo.com.au w superchargervegan.com w gravityfloat.com.au

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Kidding around

Amazing architecture

w artscentremelbourne.com.au w musuemsvictoria.com.au/ bug-lab

w melbournebikeshare.com.au w meltours.com.au

Excite your youngster’s imagination at Arts Centre Melbourne’s staging of Junk (22–23 September), when the Flying Fruit Fly Circus journeys back in time to the 1940s. After a bite at Hamer Hall’s Bombini Buzz, catch a number 96 tram to Melbourne Museum for Bug Lab: Little Bugs, Super Powers (until 15 October).

Get set to discover giant model insects and hands-on science showcasing these tiny creatures’ amazing abilities.

From grand heritage buildings and art deco facades to ultramodern design, Melbourne is a city of incredible architecture.

Hire a set of wheels from Melbourne Bike Share and follow the Grand Designs map available on its website, which takes in the Royal Exhibition Building, Shrine of Remembrance and Federation Square. Alternatively, join a MELTours Architecture Tour of Melbourne or its Art Deco Melbourne Tour, hosted by passionate local experts.

Book it in

Melbourne Bike Share udeyismail / Shutterstock

Feeling sporty

w melbournesportshub.com.au/ msac w greenfieldsalbertpark.com.au w albertparkdrivingrange.com.au

w dmrexplore.com.au w redspot.com.au

Paradise Bookshop, Daylesford

Melbourne Museum Stewie Donn

For more information about activities within three hours of Melbourne, see the Regional Victoria section on page 111.

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Itineraries

With warmer weather on the way, it’s time to get fit and active in our sports-loving city. Albert Park has lots of options for working up a sweat or improving your golf swing. Start your morning by swimming laps or pumping iron at Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre (MSAC) or running the track around Albert Park Lake, stopping at exercise stations along the way. After a healthy breakfast at Greenfields, take to the Albert Park Driving Range to belt 100 golf balls ($17.90 for casual visitors) as far as you can.

Hire a car from Redspot Enterprise and pack your reading glasses for a booklover’s break in Daylesford, about 90 minutes’ drive from Melbourne. Admire the beautiful heritage buildings and quaint shops that line Vincent Street, stopping in at Paradise Bookshop to explore the 14 rooms of new and used books, comics and vintage ephemera. Drop by the Convent Gallery to browse the art and have a bite to eat at the on-site Bad Eastern Beach Reserve, Geelong Habits Cafe. Back in the car, take the short drive to Andrew Green’s Book Barn, overlooking Lake Daylesford.

Here you’ll find literature by local authors, as well as rare and unusual second-hand tomes. Check into Hotel Frangos for a night in with your new page-turner. In the morning, enjoy brekky at Cafe Koukla before heading home.

My Melbourne

Neil Perkins Team leader of horticulture, Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria's Melbourne Gardens

Melbourne Gardens

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Neil's favourites We asked Neil to nominate his favourite places in the city and beyond: Children's Garden

Coffee

Neil and a colleague manage a total of 18 staff responsible for garden maintenance, monitoring and planning work at both this location and the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria’s Cranbourne outpost. In total, the teams look after a total of 45 plant collections.

“Melbourne Gardens covers a huge space — 94 acres to be precise,” explains Neil. “And there’s some 10,000 species of native and exotic plants and vegetation.

gardens, I always recommend the Aboriginal Heritage Walk, as we have some really cool and knowledgeable guides to take you on that experience.

“In the summer, Moonlight Cinema is a lovely night out for the family, watching a movie on the lawn under the stars.”

“A gem many visitors don’t know about is the Mounds area, which is a group of garden beds inside D Gate — it’s really lovely.”

“Being in such a magnificent landscape is still something I love about working here, but I also really enjoy seeing areas transform over time through the talent and hard work of our staff.

Bar

The Toff in Town at Curtin House is a bar I really like to go to after work once in a while.

Restaurant

The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant is brilliant. I’ve been twice now and had a ball both times.

Treat

Going to Basement Discs, where you can check out new grooves and walk out with some music you wouldn’t find in too many other stores, is a bit of a treat.

Building

Going to see some live music in the main hall at the Melbourne Recital Centre is special. Inside, it is just stunning.

“I pretty much know every nook of the place, but my favourite area would be the fern gully with its stunning old trees, ground ferns, meandering paths and own microclimate.”

Connect with Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria: w rbg.vic.gov.au /botanicgardensvictoria royalbotanicgardensvic

Neil says he also enjoys seeing the enjoyment the gardens bring to visitors from near and far.

“When people ask me about the best things to do and see at the

It’s hard to beat a mocha down at the Terrace Tearooms, overlooking the Ornamental Lake in the gardens.

Itineraries

If you think your garden upkeep is a constant battle, spare a thought for Neil Perkins, who has spent the past 30 years tending to the expansive Melbourne Gardens, part of the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria.

The Toff in Town

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Practical Man

Shop With stylish retail precincts, specialty boutiques and bustling markets, Melbourne is a favourite destination for those with a passion for fashion.

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St Kilda Esplanade Market

Shop

Fashionable addresses

If you like to shop in one spot, take your pick of Melbourne’s stylish retail destinations. Emporium Melbourne is a shopping and dining mecca featuring Australian and international fashion brands, innovative concept stores and an upscale food court. A few blocks away is the city’s newest shopping and dining destination, St Collins Lane — an elegant three-storey centre housing 60 retailers, including contemporary local and international fashion and luxury brands such as Maje and Reiss.

Shoppers with discerning tastes will feel at home at the Paris end of Collins Street (between Spring and Swanston Streets), with highend brands and boutiques. w emporiummelbourne.com.au w stcollinslane.com w collinsstreet.com.au

Super markets

Scattered across the city and suburbs are specialty and artisan markets selling food, art, fashion, homewares, books and gifts.

St Kilda Esplanade Market is a vibrant makers’ market held every Sunday, with more than 150 stalls of handcrafted art, jewellery, photography and homewares.

Take a tram ride to check out the covetable works of talented local artists, designers and crafters at the Rose St Artists’ Market in Fitzroy. Drive the car or catch a train to Dandenong Market for a free Food Discovery Tour to learn about the stallholders’ exotic seasonal produce, enjoy tasty samples and bag some bargains. w stkildaesplanademarket.com.au w rosestmarket.com.au w dandenongmarket.com.au

Melbourne mementos

Whether you’re looking for a keepsake of your Melbourne visit or a locally made gift for friends back home, check out the wide range of arty designs and homewares at The Melbourne Shop by Lumbi. Another prime place for purchasing goods and gifts made exclusively by Victorian producers and artisans is Clementine’s in Degraves Street.

Visit Elk’s new flagship store in Little Collins Street to peruse the local brand’s stylish and ethically produced clothing and accessories. w themelbourneshop.com.au w clementines.com.au w elkaccessories.com.au

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The Block Arcade

Myer

Lucy Folk

Shop like a star

Look and feel like a celebrity by booking a personal shopping session with a professional stylist at one of the city’s department stores — David Jones and Myer offer the service at their Bourke Street stores.

Chadstone and Westfield Southland also offer personal styling services to help shoppers select flattering clothing and special-occasion wear. w davidjones.com.au w myer.com.au w chadstone.com.au w westfield.com.au/southland

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Spring racing accessories

Find the perfect fascinator or finishing touches for your race-day outfits at Melbourne’s fabulous millinery, jewellery and accessory boutiques.

The Eternal Headonist is a headwear haven, stocking stylish hats and headbands ranging from vintage to cutting-edge modern styles by 20-plus designers. You’re bound to find some playful bling, quirky clutch purses and cool sunglasses at the Lucy Folk flagship store in Crossley Lane.

For statement pendants and intricate drop earrings, try Nicole Fendel in Armadale. w theeternalheadonist.com w lucyfolk.com w nicolefendel.com.au

Melbourne is totes awesome Whether you’re after a practical satchel, beaded evening bag or monogrammed man bag, Melbourne has it… in the bag.

Shop

Design A Space

01 Luisa

If you’ve been lusting after the designer look, take a peek at this luxe Collins Street boutique (which you enter via Russell Street).

Chadstone

Just toying with you

Kids from tiny tots to tweens are well catered for in Melbourne when it comes to gifting. For quality toys, games and dolls, visit Jasper Junior, with stores in Royal Arcade, Fitzroy and Chadstone. Dafel Dolls & Bears is a tiny store in Block Arcade packed with collectable dolls, teddies, miniature cars, soft toys, dollhouses and furniture. Little Darcy in South Melbourne has delightful wooden toys, including a vintage city tram, and hip clothing and furniture. w jasperjunior.com.au w theblock.com.au w littledarcy.com

w luisa.com.au

Get your game on

Thanks to TV shows such as The Big Bang Theory, being a geek is the new cool. Stimulate your super-size cranium with games and puzzles from Mind Games and Games Workshop Melbourne. If you’re into comics and pop culture, you’ll be able to while away many hours at Minotaur and Comics ‘R’ Us. w mindgamesmelbourne.com f /gwmelbourne w minotaur.com.au w comicsrus.com.au

02 Design A Space

Peruse a stylish selection of bags, shoes and accessories produced by Melbourne’s best independent designers at Design A Space stores in Manchester Lane, Windsor and Fitzroy. w designaspace.com.au

03 Crumpler

Find proudly Melbournemade messenger bags, backpacks and travel cases that are fashionable, functional and durable. w crumpler.com

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Speciality shops, hand made products, great food and authentic atmosphere. With so much on offer you’ll take home more than just memories.

Melbourne´s Marketplace Corner of elizabeth & ViCtoria Street, Melbourne

qvm.com.au

Central Equity Apartments Superb City and Southbank locations.

Walk to Bourke Street Mall shopping, Queen Victoria Market, Crown, MCG, restaurants and cafes, plus RMIT, Melbourne University and more.

Choose from brand new, off-the-plan apartments or recently completed apartments that are ready to move in.

Inspect: Mon–Sat, 10am to 5pm & Sun,12pm to 5pm 560 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne 151 City Road, Southbank t 9278 8888 (seven days) w centralequity.com.au Left: Artist impression

The Block Arcade

A Melbourne heritage building and key feature of the city’s Golden Heritage Trail, this Collins Street National Trust treasure is a must to visit. The Block Arcade opened in 1892 during Melbourne’s Golden Age. Truly Melbourne’s grandest arcade, it’s home to 29 fascinating shops, an amazing intricate mosaic floor and the National Trust ‘Tapping Man’ who has been tapping Melbourne’s CBD windows for half a century. The Block Arcade is listed on the Heritage Register of Victoria.

Guided tours: Available every Tue & Thu – bookings by phone or email are essential.

282 Collins Street, Melbourne t 9654 5244 w theblock.com.au e tours@theblock.com.au

Australian By Design

For almost 15 years Australian By Design has been showcasing exceptional quality, Australian-crafted gifts and souvenirs at affordable prices. We specialise in Aboriginal art and craft, timber, pewter, bronze, silk scarves, jewellery and handblown glass, plus many other beautiful Australian-made gifts.

Most of our products have been hand-crafted in Australia by outstanding craftspeople, some of whom have been creating their beautiful pieces for more than 40 years.

Open: Daily (see website for details) Shop 20, The Block Arcade 282 Collins Street, Melbourne t 9663 9883 w australianbydesign.com.au

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Local & international fashion, exquisite giftware, quality entertainment & mouth watering cuisine.

45 Collins St, Melbourne

|

collinsplace.com.au

Downies Coins & Collectables

One of Australia’s largest displays of collector coins, featuring modern numismatic releases, decimal and pre-decimal Australian and world coins and banknotes.

Featuring three interactive, rotating coin display cabinets, mechanically controlled with a forward and reverse viewing function. Holding more than 1000 coins from all over the world, including an extensive British Colonial and Australian selection.

Specialised services include rare coin sales and wish-list fulfillment, valuation services, including auction consignments, and gold and silver bullion sales.

Shop

Open: Mon–Thu, 9.30am to 5pm; Fri, 9.30am to 6pm & Sat, 10am to 3.30pm Shop U04 Southgate 3 Southgate Avenue, Southbank t 9686 8411 w downies.com

Johnston Jewellers

Johnston Jewellers, a family business dating back to 1901, is proud to be one of Melbourne’s largest opal dealers.

With knowledge stemming from an involvement in opal mining and manufacturing, Johnston Jewellers can provide first-class quality and selection to suit all budgets.

We stock a huge selection of unmounted opals, as well as set opal jewellery, and are only too happy to explain the intricacies of purchasing one of these fine gems.

Johnston Jewellers also has a magnificent range of South Sea black, white and gold pearls, as well as jewellery, to choose from.

124 Exhibition Street, Melbourne t 9650 7434 w johnstonjewellers.com e info@johnstonjewellers.com Find us on:

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Lightning Ridge Opal Mines

Join the Le Souëf family to learn about the most beautiful gemstone in the world. With more than 40 years experience mining, cutting and exporting opals, we can teach you about all eight varieties available in Australia and how they are cut, polished and valued.

Visit our showroom for a unique, interactive, obligation-free lesson, then browse our huge range of internationally guaranteed opals.

Tram: Number 19, 57 or 59 to stop 2 Open daily: Mon–Fri, 9.30am to 5.30pm & Sat–Sun, 10am to 5pm 63 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne t 9654 4444 w opals.net.au Find us on:

Tivoli Jewellers

Tivoli Jewellers is located in the heart of Melbourne CBD, in the iconic Royal Arcade.

We specialise in Australian diamonds, opals and pearls. Among our collection we have exclusive Argyle Kimberley pink diamonds, Australian chocolate diamonds, South Sea pearls, Tahitian pearls, Helas Collection for Japanese Akoya and Australian pearls; and Ellani Collection for silver.

Our experienced and knowledgeable staff is committed to give you the best shopping experience while in our shop and we will help you find the best piece for you.

Tram: Number 1, 3, 3a, 5, 6, 8, 16, 64, 67 or 72 to stop 10; and number 86 or 96 to stop 5 Open: Mon–Thu, 10.30am to 5pm; Fri, 10.30am to 5.30pm; Sat 10am to 5pm & Sun, 11am to 4pm Royal Arcade, Shop 27, 335 Bourke Street t 9663 0996 w tivolijewellers.com.au Find us on:

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8bit Josie Withers

Eat& drink Melbourne is renowned for its flair with food, cool bar scene and, of course, its great coffee, so dig in and drink up.

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Cutler & Co, Fitzroy John Gollings

Word on the street Georgia (25) from Keilor Park

Vue de monde

My favourite food groups are cheese and wine (OK, wine might not actually constitute food, but let’s gloss over that), so I was one very happy lady when I discovered Milk the Cow in Lygon Street.

It was like I’d died and gone to cheese heaven.

It serves all the best choices of soft, hard and blue from around the world with wine, beer and even whisky to match.

The Atlantic

w milkthecow.com.au

Cumulus Inc

Fancy dining

You’ve seen them on TV cooking shows and bought their books, now taste our top chefs’ signature dishes at Melbourne’s fine-dining restaurants.

Ben Shewry’s Attica has been listed in the world’s top 50 restaurants for the past five years, while Shannon Bennett’s modern French Vue de monde remains one of the city’s most revered dining destinations. Andrew McConnell has an evergrowing empire of eateries, including Cumulus Inc and Cutler & Co, earning glowing reviews. w attica.com.au w vuedemonde.com w cumulusinc.com.au w cutlerandco.com.au

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A good catch

Pop on a bib, grab a mallet and get stuck into a delicious build-your-own-bowl of blue swimmer crab at Miss Katie’s Crab Shack, located within Ding Dong Bar in Market Lane. For an upscale seafood dining experience overlooking the Yarra River and Southbank, reserve a table at The Atlantic.

For fabulous fish and chips, get to Tommy Ruff Fish Bar in Elsternwick, Windsor or Mordialloc. w misskatiescrabshack.com w theatlantic.com.au w tommyruff.com.au

New bites and bars Meet some of the new players in the city’s dining and bar scene.

Camus, Northcote

Hana

01 Hana

Mankoushe, Brunswick East

Vegan delights

The city’s growing appetite for vegan food is seeing more health-conscious restaurants open their doors in Melbourne.

The Alley is a vegan eatery on St Kilda Road that’s all about wholesome, fast and sustainable comfort food. Eating clean doesn’t mean missing out on sweet treats — try the delicious dairy-free soft serve, gelati, mylk shakes and cakes at Girls & Boys, a dessert bar in Fitzroy. w thealley.net.au w girlsandboysfitzroy.com.au

Eat & drink

Say aloha to this new raw seafood and tiki bar that’s bringing a slice of island paradise to Little Collins Street. w hanarestaurant.com.au

Best of the ’burbs

Check out what’s cooking in the inner suburbs, including the refined North African cuisine at Camus in Northcote where you can savour slow-cooked goat and Turkish delight soufflé. For a Middle Eastern menu stretching from Iran to Morocco, make your way to Mankoushe. The wood-fired pizzas smell and taste amazing, with exotic ingredients such as Phoenician sautéed leek and house-made chilli labneh.

New multi-tasking Abacus Bar and Kitchen is keeping Chapel Street well fed from breakfast to dinner as a restaurant, then transforming to a bar with DJs by night. w camusrestaurant.com.au w mankoushe.com.au w abacusbar.com.au

For more ideas about what’s hot and happening in the suburbs, see the Neighbourhoods section on page 96.

02 Osteria Ilaria

This modern ItalianMediterranean hot spot doesn’t only serve formidable food — there’s also incredible cocktails and impressive beer and wine lists. w osteriailaria.com

03 Kisumé

Try Flinders Lane’s new three-level sushi and sake palace that’s the talk of the town. w kisume.com.au

04 Souk

Hidden down a little laneway, you’ll find slow-cooked Middle Eastern flavours and seductive cocktails under fun neon lighting. w soukmelbourne.com.au

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In the know

Frank's favourites

In the know

Here are some of Frank's top picks:

Bar

Naked for Satan comes to mind. It’s a Melbourne institution that’s dark downstairs, with brilliant views upstairs.

A buzz about town Naked in the Sky

Get the inside scoop on Arts Centre Melbourne’s latest eatery, cafe and bar — Bombini Buzz — from the man behind it all.

Restaurant

Frank Bischoff has an impressive work history, creating the finest food and beverage experiences for guests in venues across the world, from Azerbaijan to New Zealand. He now calls Melbourne home and is leading Arts Centre Melbourne’s foodie offering, as its Food and Beverage Director.

He recently masterminded the opening of Arts Centre Melbourne’s newest eatery, Bombini Buzz, which is fast becoming the talk of the town.

Cafe

With a focus on curating the finest selection of local produce and products, theatre goers and visitors are in for an authentic Melbourne experience at Bombini Buzz.

“Our coffee is from Seven Seeds located in Carlton. Our artisan

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gelato by Billy van Creamy is made in Fitzroy. Stomping Ground, Collingwood’s independent brewery, makes our Gipps Street Pale Ale and Laneway Lager,” says Frank.

I love the relaxed, funky atmosphere of Lucy Liu in Oliver Lane in the city.

Mammoth in Armadale.

I live close by, so it’s my local on a Sunday morning.

Situated in the same building as the esteemed Hamer Hall, the Bombini Buzz name pays homage to its home.

“We wanted to acknowledge that Hamer Hall is the home of Melbourne’s classical music and the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, so we thought of Rimsky Korsakoff’s ‘Flight of the Bumblebee’. That inspired Bombini, which is the name of a social tribe of bees, and buzz is self-explanatory.” w artscentremelbourne.com.au

Bombini Buzz

Our

picks

Bombini Buzz

Bar and bites Shadowboxer Bar and Kitchen

Pull up a stool at this delightful South Yarra bar and eatery that champions local producers, winemakers and spirit distillers.

Graze on a charcuterie board or select something more substantial, such as crispy skin pork belly or the weekend roast. w shadowboxer.bar

Eat & drink

spring Roxborough Bar and Kitchen

Enjoy the light, bright space and European-leaning lunch and dinner menus, using the finest Victorian-sourced ingredients and hand-made pasta, at this newbie on St Kilda’s Acland Street. w roxborough.com.au

Neptune

Take a trip to Neptune via Windsor for delicious seafood and Italian dishes at this new casual eatery that has a superb cocktail saloon. w neptune.melbourne

Henry Sugar

With an impressive menu of small plates and desserts, as well as awesome cocktails, this Carlton North restaurant/bar is the perfect place for a treat. w henrysugar.com.au

Bombini Buzz

Perfect for a pre- or post-theatre drink, this buzzing new riverside cafe and bar in Hamer Hall provides a taste of Melbourne with micro-roasted coffee from Carlton’s Seven Seeds, Billy van Creamy’s organic artisan gelato made in Fitzroy North and Stomping Ground beers brewed in Collingwood. w artscentremelbourne.com.au

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Chin Chin

Fancy Hank’s

Uncle Greg Elms

Brunch and beyond

Chef’s choice

Au79

There aren’t enough superlatives to capture the deliciousness of this modern Thai treasure in the heart of the city. Follow your instincts and pick ‘Uncle knows best’ — the chefs’ choice of the best bits of the day.

You’ll feel like you’re in a botanical conservatory at this Abbotsford cafe (formerly a mechanic’s garage) that’s open for breakfast and lunch, and boasts an in-house coffee roaster, bakery and dining hall. w au79cafe.com.au

Nomada

Bringing tapas (and sherry) to breakfast in Brunswick Street, Nomada has lots of special effects on the menu, including fermentation, dehydration, water baths, vacuum packs and curing. w nomada.com.au

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Uncle

w unclerestaurants.com.au

Fancy Hank’s

Bring on the best slow-cooked brisket and pork shoulder in Bourke Street. Choose the ‘feed me’ menu option for an array of smoked meats and sides, such as corn bread, fries and salad. w fancyhanks.com.au

Chin Chin

This mod Thai restaurant in Flinders Lane is a crowd drawer and reviewer favourite. Leave the ordering up to those in the know in the kitchen by requesting the ‘feed me’ option. w chinchin.com.au

Polē Polē

It’s all about slow and shared feasting at this African-inspired bar and kitchen in Little Collins Street. The ‘feed me’ menu comprises the chef’s selection of three bigger plates (think spicy barbecue ribs) and four sides. w polepolebar.com.au

LuxBite, South Yarra

Eat & drink

CHE, Fitzroy

Top spots for a drop Boatrockers Brewing Co Head to this microbrewery's barrel room to taste its award-winning beers. w boatrocker.com.au

CHE

CHE, which stands for cerveza (beer), helado (ice-cream) and empanadas, is the next Latin American offering to land in Fitzroy. Chef Alejandro Saravia’s charcoal chicken is marinated in dark malt beer, spices and Peruvian chillies for 48 hours. a 295 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy

Atlas

Restaurants with international influence Atlas

Every four months, young gun chef Charlie Carrington switches the inventive cuisine at his swish South Yarra restaurant. Spring will see the flavours of Mexico visit Atlas. w atlasdining.com.au

Napier Quarter

Enjoy a touch — and taste — of France in Fitzroy at this new espresso and wine bar that's great for all-day dining.

Just desserts LuxBite

Liberate your love of cake, meringue and macarons of every colour of the rainbow at this South Yarra sugar shack. w luxbite.com.au

Bibelot

Delicious and detailed desserts, sorbets, high tea and gourmet gifts are created by South Melbourne’s sultans of sweetness at neighbouring patisserie Chez Dré. w bibelot.com.au

w napierquarter.com.au

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Yarra River

Southgate Melbourne Southgate is a vibrant restaurant, shopping and entertainment destination located along the banks of Melbourne's Yarra River. The centre is located directly opposite the heritage-listed Flinders Street Station at the gateway to Melbourne’s arts precinct, in the heart of Southbank.

Southgate is the place to be in Melbourne year round, as the restaurant precinct is a key event destination for those attending theatre, dance and opera performances at the Arts Centre. It’s also perfect for those looking for a bite to eat on their way to or from a big game at the MCG! Tram: Alight at the St Kilda Road / Arts Centre Melbourne tram stop, cross over St Kilda Road and walk past Hamer Hall into Southgate Train: Catch the train to Flinders Street Station and take underpass to walk over Southbank Pedestrian footbridge to Southgate Open: Daily, 9am until late 3 Southgate Avenue, Southbank t 9686 1000 w southgatemelbourne.com.au Find us on:

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BearBrass

BearBrass has returned after a refresh and is looking bigger and better than ever. With expanded internal dining areas it's a great spot to pop in for a fantastic weekly special, including $20 Monday and Tuesday lunch, $18 Pizza and Pint Wednesday and tempting drink specials to kick off your weekend.

Pull up a chair and take in that city view at BearBrass, open from breakfast till beer o'clock every day.

Southgate offers a diverse mix of riverside restaurants, cafes and bars, a casual licensed food court, and a range of boutique retailers, as well as everyday needs.

The Hotel Windsor

Partake in a quintessential Melbourne experience that has been brewing since 1883. Step back in time from the moment the doorman greets you at the entrance of Australia's most cherished grand hotel, until you set foot in the elegant sun-filled tea room.

Enjoy delicate finger sandwiches, delicious pastries and The Windsor's famous freshly baked scones, served on traditional tiered silver stands. Additionally, an indulgent dessert buffet on weekends is sure to satisfy the sweetest of tooths!

Tram: Number 11, 12, 35 (free City Circle), 48 or 109 to stop 8; and number 86 or 96 to stop 9 Train: Parliament Station (Bourke Street exit) Open: Mon–Tue, 12pm to 2pm; Wed–Fri, 12pm to 2pm & 2.30pm to 4.30pm; Sat–Sun, 12pm to 2pm & 3pm to 5pm

Eat & drink

111 Spring Street, Melbourne t 9633 6004 w thehotelwindsor.com.au Find us on:

Amora Hotel Riverwalk Melbourne

2017 WINNER - Superior Accommodation Hotel of the Year.* 2017 WINNER - Hotel Restaurant of the Year - Fresco Restaurant.* Ideally positioned on the banks of the Yarra River in Richmond, on vibrant Bridge Road and minutes from Melbourne CBD and all it has to offer.

With undercover parking and trams on our doorstep.

Be it business travel or a leisure stay, we have everything you need to ensure your stay is perfect. *Tourism Accommodation Australia (VIC) Accommodation Awards for Excellence.

Tram: Number 48 or 75 to stop 22 Open: 24 hours 649 Bridge Road, Richmond t 9246 1200 or 1800 339 436 w melbourne.amorahotels.com e res@amora.melbourne Find us on:

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Colonial Tramcar Restaurant

Dining in Melbourne is a fabulous experience, especially aboard the Colonial Tramcar Restaurant. As the glossy, burgundy trams cruise the scenic streets of Melbourne, diners enjoy our fine cuisine and drink the very best Australian wines or something from the selection of beverages from our fully stocked bar at an inclusive price.

Open: Daily; Luncheon, 1pm to 3pm; Early dinner, 5.45pm to 7.15pm & Late dinner, 8.35pm to 11.30pm t 9695 4000 w tramrestaurant.com.au

The Pancake Parlour

The Pancake Parlour is a Melbourne family business serving sweet and savoury pancakes and crepes, as well as fish, chicken, steak and salads. Breakfast fare includes delicious crispy bacon, free-range eggs, house-made hash browns and freshly squeezed orange juice and is served until 5pm daily.

Melbourne Central (Level 3, next to cinemas) Centrepoint Arcade, Bourke Street Mall (down the escalators) w pancakeparlour.com.au Find us on:

Bombini Buzz

Melbourne is buzzing to a new beat.

Arts Centre Melbourne’s newest cafe, eatery and bar, Bombini Buzz, presents a selection of the finest locally sourced produce.

Start your morning with the very best micro-roasted coffee from Seven Seeds and a savoury or sweet bite.

The beverage list features an exciting menu of wines, spirits, beer and cider from Victoria and Australia.

Located within Hamer Hall alongside the Yarra River, Bombini Buzz is a great meeting spot pre-show or somewhere to kick back over a late-night drink and a local cheese platter.

Open: Mon–Fri, 8am till late; Sat & Sun, 10am till late Hamer Hall, Southbank Promenade, Melbourne t 9281 8053 w artscentremelbourne.com.au/bombinibuzz

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Bridge Road Richmond

Experience Melbourne like a local. Bridge Road is one of Melbourne’s fastest growing food precincts, with more than 155 cafes and restaurants offering cuisine from every corner of the globe. Bridge Road has food for every taste and budget from cheep eats to hatted restaurants.

You can mingle with locals as you explore the array of shops offering everything from top-totoe fashion, through to one-off homewares and furnishings.

As one of Melbourne’s original suburbs, Richmond offers a delightful sample of well-preserved early Australian architecture. Download our historical walk and follow the wall plaques to discover the area’s history.

Tram: Number 48, 75 or 78 Train: Richmond or West Richmond Station

Eat & drink

w bridgerd.com.au Find us on:

Transit Rooftop Bar

With sweeping views up and down the Yarra River, across the CBD and south to the arts and sports precincts, Transit Rooftop Bar is one of Melbourne's original rooftop venues.

Ideally situated on the edge of Federation Square in the heart of Melbourne, Transit boasts a stunning outlook, either day or night. On level two of the iconic Transport Hotel, with heated outdoor terraces, unparalleled vistas and exquisite food from Taxi Kitchen, Transit is the ideal venue to start or finish an evening. While away a crisp night or linger and enjoy wonderful hospitality, live music and contemporary cocktails.

Tram: Number 3, 3a, 5, 6,16, 64, 67 or 72 to stop 13; and number 70 or 75 to stop 5 Train: Flinders Street Station Open: Daily, 12pm till late Level 2, Transport Hotel, Federation Square, Melbourne t 9654 8808 w transitrooftopbar.com.au Find us on:

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We’re proud to be home to some of Melbourne’s most iconic food stories

He came to Australia rich in pastry and café expertise.

GIORGIO ANGELÉ began his training in Rome at the ripe age of 10. In 1956, he came to Australia with the Italian Olympic team as a Pastr y Chef. After working a few years he migrated to Australia permanently and has been involved in the industr y ever since. He later acquired Brunetti where you can still find him in the kitchen baking delicious European-style sweets and desserts. Brunetti is a Melbourne food institution and with expansion across the city and international locations, Melbourne Airport is ver y lucky to have them situated in the newly built T4 Domestic Terminal.

The man behind Vue de monde took cooking classes in a girls school.

SHANNON BENNETT was raised in Westmeadows in Melbourne.

He attended Penleigh Essendon Grammar School where an opportunity at the local girls school to study Home Economics was too good to pass up. Shannon’s passion for cooking was further realised by trips to Europe where his uncle introduced him to the sophisticated world of restaurants. His Vue de monde restaurant quickly became a Melbourne icon and in 2010 he opened Café Vue at Melbourne International Airport as an option for international travellers. In 2011 he followed this up with Café Vue Express, extending the experience to all travellers.

T2, Level 1 Departures.

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Aladdin the Musical Deen van Meer © Disney

Arts& culture If you’re craving a culture fix, you’re spoiled for choice in Melbourne this spring. There’s a huge assortment of world-class exhibitions, lavish musicals and artistic festivals on offer.

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NGV International Peter Dunphy

Artistic pursuits

As well as hosting visiting exhibitions by the biggest names in the art world, NGV International on St Kilda Road has an impressive permanent collection of masterpieces, including works by Monet and Rembrandt. The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia at Federation Square is dedicated to Australian art and is currently showing Every Brilliant Eye: Australian Art of the 1990s (until 1 October).

A 20-minute drive from the CBD is the captivating Heide Museum of Modern Art, featuring five gallery spaces, a sculpture park and expansive parkland.

The Heide site was the home and workspace for a circle of like-minded artists, including Albert Tucker and Sidney Nolan, who pioneered Australian modernism in the early to mid-20th century. This spring you can see Making History: The Boyd Family (until 12 November), showcasing the museum’s rich collection of works by the acclaimed Boyd dynasty, including paintings by Arthur Boyd.

Take to the stage

Melbourne is blessed with many grand theatres, including the Victorian-era Princess Theatre that stages many of the big musical premieres in Australia. The Regent Theatre, on Collins Street, is one of the city’s most magnificent auditoriums for musicals and ballet productions. In nearby Exhibition Street is Her Majesty’s Theatre, another heritagelisted venue that has been entertaining audiences with performances and musicals since 1886. w marrinergroup.com.au w hmt.com.au

w ngv.vic.gov.au w heide.com.au Regent Theatre

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Indigenous Melbourne Experience Melbourne’s rich Indigenous history, culture and art at one of many locations across the city.

Melbourne Museum

01 Bunjilaka

Melbourne Museum’s First Peoples exhibition (above) at the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre focuses on the story of Aboriginal Victoria from the time of creation to today.

National Sports Museum

Melbourne’s modern museums bring history, science and nature to life, with visitors encouraged to touch and interact with many of the exhibits.

Check out Melbourne Museum’s brilliant displays, artefacts and interactive technology. Its recently revamped Children’s Gallery lets kids pretend to be archeologists digging for fossils or turn themselves stripy or spotty in the immersive ‘camouflage disco’.

At the National Sports Museum, you can play virtual reality simulation games — here’s your chance to face a spinning delivery from a 3D hologram of Warnie — and check out the stunning collection of memorabilia, including Don Bradman’s baggy green cap and Cadel Evans’ bike. Another spot where you can test your mettle in different sports, as well as spend some time in outer space, is Scienceworks. w museumsvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum w nsm.org.au w museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks

02 Koorie Heritage Trust

The Koorie Heritage Trust is the oldest community-owned Aboriginal arts and culture centre of its kind in Australia. It’s home to temporary exhibitions and permanent displays, as well as a retail centre that promotes art and craft work by Koorie artists. w koorieheritagetrust.com

03 Aboriginal Heritage Walk

Explore the ancestral lands of the Wurundjeri people and taste Indigenous food straight from the tree on a guided tour of the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria's Melbourne Gardens. w rbg.vic.gov.au

04 The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia

This gallery in Federation Square focuses solely on local art. The Aboriginal collection is particularly strong, with both artefacts and works by major Indigenous artists on permanent display. w ngv.vic.gov.au

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Arts & culture

Supreme museums

w museumsvictoria.com.au/first-peoples

Kids’ play See fun adaptations of popular storybooks and tales with poignant messages at Arts Centre Melbourne.

The Gruffalo ©Tall Stories

01 Horrible Harriet

Horrible Harriet (27–30 September), created

by Australian Children’s Laureate Leigh Hobbs, features a wicked, wild and wonderful character who lives in a nest at her school. She’s feared by her classmates and teachers, but looks can be deceiving — maybe Harriet is just searching for a true friend who understands her.

02 The Gruffalo

Anyone who has ever scoffed, “There’s no such thing as a Gruffalo”, should join Little Mouse on his thrilling journey through the deep dark wood filled with hungry predators in The Gruffalo (15–26 November).

03 Bambert’s Book of Lost Stories

Watch what happens when Bambert, an impossibly small man with an enormous love of writing, decides to set his stories free in Bambert’s Book of Lost Stories (27–28 September). w artscentremelbourne.com.au

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Madame Brussels

Musical Melbourne

The city’s vibrant live music scene has all genres covered, from classical concerts at the Melbourne Recital Centre to hard rock gigs at grungy pubs and everything in between. Some of our best-known band rooms can be found at The Workers Club, Corner Hotel and The Curtin Hotel. For cool jazz, make a beeline for Bird’s Basement. w melbournerecital.com.au w theworkersclub.com.au w cornerhotel.com w johncurtinhotel.com w birdsbasement.com

In the know

Jessica Ward Circus arts performer, TORUK – The First Flight

by Cirque du Soleil After a long career in competitive dance and acrobatic gymnastics, Jessica Ward turned her focus to circus arts in 2007, studying the techniques and honing her skills in aerial hoop, aerial silks and hand balancing.

In late 2014, the chance of a lifetime came along when she was asked to work and tour with the world-famous Cirque du Soleil. This spring she’ll play the role of a Na’vi in the company’s arena show, TORUK – The First Flight, inspired by James Cameron’s film AVATAR, (2–12 Novmeber) at Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena.

Arts & culture

Here are some of Jessica’s top picks for how she likes to spend her time in Melbourne when she’s not training, rehearsing and performing:

Cafe

My top pick for a breakfast bite is Yellow Bird Cafe in Chapel Street.

Coffee Corner Hotel, Richmond

You can’t beat Dukes Coffee Roasters in Flinders Lane.

Bar

For some sunshine and a Pimms, I head to Madame Brussels.

Place

Running the Tan Track and shopping on Chapel Street or Bourke Street.

Connect with Cirque du Soleil on: w cirquedusoleil.com /cirquedusoleil @cirque

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888 Collins

Making light of Melbourne’s weather

Each night, the façade of 888 Collins – a 15-storey residential building on the corner of Bourke and Collins streets in Docklands – puts on a mesmerising light show of colours and patterns dictated by the prevailing temperature and weather conditions.

“When I moved to Melbourne nine years ago, I was taken by the city’s fixation with weather,” Ramus explains. “When we were offered the opportunity with Light House to reflect the weather through light, our concept for 888 Collins was born.

The installation, titled Light House, “Rather than showing the weather report in numbers, the light work runs on 100 per cent solar power is an abstract representation of and comprises 58,000 LED lights. the climate and forecast.

The building’s developer, If it’s going to be hot, the lines Lendlease, sought acclaimed of lights rise like a temperature lighting designer Bruce Ramus, gauge and the colours get who has worked with rock stars warmer, but if a cold snap is on U2, REM and David Bowie, to the way you’ll see cooler tones. create the architectural

Arts & culture

You’ve heard of people changing their minds like the weather, but how about a building that changes colour according to the temperature?

“The goal is to reflect how the weather feels through gently changing movement, colour and patterns,” he says.

How does it work? The sophisticated lighting system is fed real-time data from the Bureau of Meteorology and a weather station on 888 Collins’ roof.

A great place to view the light spectacular during winter is from Buluk Park, located at 894–910 Collins Street, Docklands. w victoriaharbour.com.au/lighthouse w lendlease.com w ramus.com.au

lighting landmark.

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In-spire-ing

Arts Centre Melbourne

Sitting beneath one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks — the magnificent spire — Arts Centre Melbourne is at the heart of Australia’s largest performing arts precinct.

The cultural hub

Arts Centre Melbourne is much bigger than even most Victorians realise, comprising three venues on both sides of St Kilda Road: The Theatres Building has the impressive State Theatre, Playhouse and intimate Fairfax Studio; Hamer Hall is a premier venue for musical performances, including Melbourne Symphony Orchestra; and Sidney Myer Music Bowl is popular for openair concerts.

More than merely a place to see a show, this buzzing cultural precinct is a remarkable tourist attraction in its own right that can be explored and enjoyed in a variety of ways. The good news is many of the experiences are free.

Visitors can peruse the works of renowned Australian artists such as Arthur Boyd and Sidney Nolan lining the walls of the building or take a guided tour (daily at 11am).

On Sundays (10am to 4pm), local artisans showcase their unique handmade goods – perfect for one-of-a-kind gifts – at the Sunday Market on the Arts Centre Melbourne lawn.

Wining and dining

There are plenty of great places to eat and drink. The Barre is perfect for a pre-show wine, meal or late-night drink. For a quick coffee and cake break try Cento and Café Vic. At Hamer Hall, Bombini Buzz is serving micro-roasted Melbourne coffee and ice-cream during the day, morphing into a pre-show and late night bar alongside Fatto Bar & Cantina, Teatro and Saké also overlooking the Yarra River. w artscentremelbourne.com.au

Horrible Harriet

This spring, fun adaptations of popular books Horrible Harriet and The Gruffalo, dance theatre, circus and breathtaking puppetry will make Arts Centre Melbourne the place for families.

Guided tour

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Arts & culture

For more than 30 years, Arts Centre Melbourne has been a hub for story-telling through world-class theatre, dance, music, art and circus, and thrilling audiences with a diverse program of local and international productions and exhibitions.

More than meets the eye

Wild Gallery, Melbourne Museum

Melbourne Museum A visit to Melbourne Museum is a rich and surprising insight into life in Victoria. We show you intriguing permanent collections and bring you brilliant temporary exhibitions from near and far.

You’ll see our natural environment, our cultures and our history through different perspectives.

Highlights: + Share in the stories of Victoria’s First Peoples at Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre. + Get to know our beloved city in The Melbourne Story. + Experience a living Australian rainforest in the Forest Gallery at the heart of the museum.

While you visit Melbourne Museum, make sure you visit the world’s biggest screen at IMAX Melbourne.

Tram: Number 86 or 96 to stop 12; and number 35 (free City Circle) to stop stop 9 Train: City Loop train to Parliament Station Bus: Number 250, 251 or 402 to Rathdowne Street Open: Daily, 10am to 5pm (closed Christmas Day and Good Friday) 11 Nicholson Street, Carlton t 13 11 02 w museumvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum /melbournemuseum /melbournemuseum

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IMAX Melbourne

Be amazed by an experience that transports you to awesome new worlds and engages your senses and emotions. Featuring IMAX Laser the world’s most advanced cinema technology, IMAX Melbourne is the ultimate place to view traditional documentaries or the latest Hollywood blockbusters. Tickets and sessions available online.

Highlights: + Experience the IMAX Laser difference – the sharpest, brightest, clearest and most vivid images ever! + Get half price entry into Melbourne Museum with any adult IMAX ticket purchase.

Old Treasury Building

Discover Melbourne’s history, heritage and people.

Built at the height of the gold rush, the magnificent Old Treasury Building is regarded as one of the finest 19th-century buildings in Melbourne. The equally grand interior now hosts a variety of displays centred on the history of Melbourne, featuring rare original documents from the Public Record Office Victoria.

Be sure to visit the historic gold vaults, used during the 1860s to store the precious metal coming from the goldfields in central Victoria.

Wild Colonial Boys, the current temporary exhibition, explores early Victoria’s frontier society and the bushrangers who created public panic.

Tram: Number 11, 12, 48 or 109 to stop 8; and number 35 (free City Circle) to stop 10 Train: Parliament Station Open: Sun–Fri, 10am to 4pm (closed Saturdays) 20 Spring Street, Melbourne t 9651 2233 w otb.org.au Find us on:

The Shrine of Remembrance is a building with a soul.

Opened in 1934, the Shrine is the Victorian state memorial to Australians who served in global conflicts throughout our nation’s history.

Renowned for its architecture the Shrine offers a multi-layered journey rich in meaning and symbology.

Set in an elevated position as the centrepiece of the sprawling parklands at the southern end of the city’s cultural precinct, the Shrine provides unrivalled, panoramic views of Melbourne. Guided tours are available daily from the Visitor Centre at 11am and 12.45pm.

Tram: Number 3, 3A, 5, 6,16, 58, 64 ,67 or 72 to stop 19 Open daily: 10am to 5pm Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne t 9661 8100 w shrine.org.au Find us on:

Half Page_OVG Spring 2017.indd 18

20/07/2017 10:27 AM 65

Arts & culture

Shrine of Remembrance

The Festival of Questions The Wheeler Centre presents some of the sharpest and funniest thinkers of today across four sessions to wrestle with the big questions facing Australia, and the world.

SUNDAY 15 OCTOBER at Melbourne Town Hall, 12–9pm

Join us for a day of storytelling, comedy, debate, discussion and possible disarray. Open your mind, and mind the whole world’s business.

JULIAN BURNSIDE GERALDINE DOOGUE LAUREN DUCA GARETH EVANS DEBORAH FRANCES-WHITE REBECCA HUNTLEY KRISSY KNEEN ANNA KRIEN AMY MCQUIRE GEORGE MEGALOGENIS

SHIREEN MORRIS SHEN NARAYANASAMY JORDAN RASKOPOULOS HELEN RAZER JAMILA RIZVI GEOFFREY ROBERTSON TIM WILSON DAMON YOUNG Plus more to be announced

Presented in partnership with Melbourne Festival and The City of Melbourne

Full day pass: $60 plus 30c booking fee.

Single session: $20 plus 30c booking fee.

Single session tickets available early September

BOOK NOW at wheelercentre.com

About the Wheeler Centre The Wheeler Centre is Melbourne’s home for smart, passionate and entertaining public talks on every topic.

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Across 230+ events each year and a unique collection of videos, podcasts and original writing, you’ll find some of our finest local and international writers and thinkers sharing their expertise, their imaginations and their ideas.

Subscribe to the Wheeler Weekly newsletter at wheelercentre.com for all the latest information on events, podcasts, broadcasts and more.

Find us at 176 Little Lonsdale St, Melbourne (a dedicated wing of the State Library Victoria).

State Library Victoria

State Library Victoria, located in Melbourne’s CBD, is one of the state’s most popular heritage destinations.

Established in 1854, it is the oldest and busiest public library in Australia.

The majestic La Trobe Reading Room is the heart of the library, and one of its most magnificent and most photographed spaces. When the room opened in 1913, it was the largest concrete dome in the world, with a soaring glass ceiling and three levels of galleries. A viewing platform on the top-level gallery Tram: Number 1, 3, 3a, 5, 6, 16, 30, 35 (free City Circle), 64, 67 or 72 to stop 6 Train: Melbourne Central Station Open: Mon–Thu, 10am to 9pm & Fri–Sun / Tue 7 Nov (Melbourne Cup Day), 10am to 6pm 328 Swanston Street, Melbourne t 8664 7099 w slv.viv.gov.au /statelibraryofvictoria library_vic @library_vic

Ned Kelly's armour

offers a fabulous panorama of the dome and the reading room below.

The galleries that line the dome also house free exhibitions showcasing some of the library’s most precious treasures from its collection of almost five million items. Enjoy free daily tours and discover the stories of Victoria and its people. You’ll see the original armour of Australia’s most infamous bushranger, Ned Kelly; artefacts from the ill-fated expedition of famed explorers, Burke and Wills; and a dedicated display of some of the world’s rarest books, including medieval manuscripts.

Entrance to State Library Victoria is free, and free lockers and Wi-Fi are available, as well as an onsite cafe.

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Arts & culture

State Library Victoria

29 September 2017 – 21 January 2018 A large slice of Hollywood history honouring the career of multi-award winning costume designer Edith Head.

Tickets: www.bendigoartgallery.com.au

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Open 10am – 5pm, Monday – Sunday including public holidays 03 5434 6088 42 View Street Bendigo Victoria

Melbourne Museum Stewie Donn

See & do There is so much to take in and enjoy in Melbourne. Here are some of our hugely popular attractions for visitors of all ages and interests.

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Royal Melbourne Show

Access all areas We want everyone to be able to enjoy our city, so here are our tips for Melbourne’s best accessible attractions.

01 Global Ballooning

Operating Australia’s first accessible hot-air balloon for passengers with physical mobility impairment, Global Ballooning offers sunrise flights over Melbourne and the Yarra Valley.

The basket has specially designed seating and seatbelts, as well as a door that allows access without climbing over the edge. w globalballooning.com.au/accessibility

02 Arts Centre Melbourne

Offering a range of services to ensure accessibility to its theatre, musical and ballet performances, all Arts Centre Melbourne venues are wheelchair accessible and patrons can request assisted listening devices. Some performances have Auslan interpretation or captioning. Vision Australia also provides audio description and tactile tours of selected performances. w artscentremelbourne.com.au

Word on the street Heather (70), Neil (72), Taylor (8) and Will (5) from Lower Plenty We love taking our grandkids to the Royal Melbourne Show. It’s great for them to get up close with farm animals, discover traditional crafts and enjoy the excitement of the fireworks display.

The big rides aren’t our cup of tea, but the young ones seem to love them! They spend ages trying to work out the best showbag to buy with their pocket money.

Arts Centre Melbourne

w royalshow.com.au

03 Federation Square

As well as wheelchair accessibility throughout the site (including River Terrace), hearing loops are located in The Atrium, Deakin Edge and the Square. ACMI offers two wheelchair entry points and access to all of its galleries, studios and cinemas. ACMI also offers wheelchair loans, as well as assisted listening devices. w fedsquare.com w acmi.net.au For more information about accessibility in Melbourne, please refer to page 145.

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ACMI

This little foodie went to market

Discover tastes from around the globe at the largest open-air market in the southern hemisphere on a Queen Vic Market Ultimate Foodie Tour (Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 9am and 11am).

The 90-minute guided tour wanders the food halls, where you’ll meet stallholders and indulge in 10 tastings while learning about the market’s interesting history.

Included in your tour ticket is a glass of Victorian wine, a Queen Victoria Market shopping bag and a $5 voucher to spend in the general merchandise area. w qvm.com.au/tours

See & do

Queen Victoria Market

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State Library Victoria Cameron Murray

LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre

Miss Fox

Family fun

Pamper your way to pleasure

w slv.vic.gov.au w playtime.com.au w legolanddiscoverycentre.com.au

w botanicadayspa.com.au w blowdrybar.com.au w missfox.com.au

Enjoy a family outing, with a visit to the State Library Victoria’s Play Pod, which runs free activities that inspire creativity and make reading fun for kids aged eight and under. There’s fun galore at PLAYTIME Crown, with its 150 contemporary and classic arcade games. Head to the new LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre at Chadstone to build and test mini race-cars and squeal with delight on the rides.

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Spend a blissful day being pampered from head to toe in the CBD, starting with a relaxing massage and facial at Botanica Day Spa within InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto. Head across the road to the BDB Blowdry Bar to have your locks washed and styled. Wander down Little Collins Street to Miss Fox for a classic manicure, which includes a take-home bottle of Melbourne-made Kester Black nail polish.

On your bike

Melbourne Bike Share Vicki Vale

Maribyrnong River Trail

See & do

Strap on a helmet and use pedal power to explore Melbourne’s numerous bike tracks and rail trails leading to scenic reserves, bridges and historic landmarks.

Hire a blue bike from Melbourne Bike Share for the cycling journey along the Capital City Trail, whose route passes Federation Square, Docklands, Melbourne Zoo and Melbourne Gardens.

Another great ride is the 28km Maribyrnong River Trail, which follows the Yarra River from Southbank past the historic Polly Woodside sailing ship, Flemington Racecourse and beyond to Brimbank Park. See the seaside from the saddle of your two-wheeler on The Bay Trail, which stretches from Port Melbourne to Seaford. w melbournebikeshare.com.au w vicroads.vic.gov.au

Tour in darkness

Experience Melbourne from a totally new — and pitch black — perspective with Dialogue in the Dark at Harbour Town. Your guide on this immersive 60-minute journey will be a person who is blind or visually impaired. You need to rely on your guide, as well as your other (non-visual) senses, for security and orientation.

Melbourne is the first Australian city to stage a Dialogue in the Dark program, in partnership with Guide Dogs Australia. w dialogueinthedark.com.au

Dialogue in the Dark

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Melbourne Zoo

Eureka Skydeck 88

Take me higher

Get a bird’s-eye view of the city and beyond from our highest building, Eureka Skydeck 88 in Southbank.

Fearless types can try The Edge experience, where guests are suspended 300 metres over the city in a glass box. Take a spin on the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel in Docklands for awe-inspiring 360-degree views to the Dandenong Ranges. See St Kilda and the bay from on high with a ride on the historic Scenic Railway roller coaster at Luna Park. w eurekaskydeck.com.au w melbournestar.com w lunapark.com.au

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Melbourne Star Observation Wheel

Talk to the animals

Get up close to native fauna and exotic species from around the world at some of the city’s popular animal attractions. Meet the inquisitive meerkats and super-cute springtime babies at Melbourne Zoo. Experience country life at Collingwood Children’s Farm, where you can feed and pat the animals, as well as see cows being milked. More than 10,000 marine creatures call SEA LIFE Melbourne their home, including colonies of penguins and one of the biggest saltwater crocodiles in captivity. w zoo.org.au w farm.org.au w melbourneaquarium.com.au

IceBar Melbourne

The ultimate arctic experience and, at minus 10°C, this is definitely the coolest place in town and the only IceBar in Australia. The walls, tables, chairs and even the bar is made of ice!

During your stay at the IceBar we provide you with a snow cape and gloves to keep you as snug as a bug in a rug.

Tram: Number 11 to stop 16 Bus: Number 200 to Brunswick Street Open hours: Thu–Mon, 11am until late; children welcome until 7pm 319 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy t 9077 9716 or 1300 ICEBAR w icebarmelbourne.com e info@icebarmelbourne.com

Bunyip Tours

Come and experience some of the most amazing landscapes Victoria has to offer with Bunyip Tours.

Our small group sizes ensure personalised and interactive experiences.

Day and Extended Tours: + Great Ocean Road / 12 Apostles + Phillip Island Penguin Parade + Mornington Peninsula + Wilsons Promontory + Puffing Billy / Healesville Sanctuary + Sovereign Hill / Daylesford + Farmstay High Country Tour + Official Neighbours Tour 10% Discount — Quote 'OVG' when booking.

Valid for direct bookings only Open: Daily, 7am to 7pm 570 Flinders Street t 9650 9680 w bunyiptours.com

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Make your visit to Melbourne unforgettable.

Celebrating over 160 years of bringing the country to the city, the Royal Melbourne Show is an opportunity to make family memories that will last a lifetime.

You will get up close to see, pat and feed hundreds of farm animals, then take your taste buds on tour with award-winning food and drink from Australia’s finest producers and Melbourne’s best restaurants.

Plus, enjoy the thrills and excitement of rides and free live music and entertainment to make the day one to remember!

Share an unforgettable day out with family and friends at Melbourne’s largest and most iconic community event, the Royal Melbourne Show.

23 SEPT – 3 OCT ROYALSHOW.COM.AU

An experience above all else

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE

10%

DISCOUNT Present this offer to receive 10% off entry*

The Southern Hemisphere’s highest viewing platform with the world’s only EDGE EXPERIENCE Open Daily from 10am eurekaskydeck.melbourne @eureka_skydeck #eurekaskydeck

*Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Valid for all ticket types. Not valid for the EDGE Experience.

Melbourne's Luna Park

With a rich and beautiful history stretching back for more than 100 years, Luna Park is famous about town for its thrills, excitement and fun! Step inside Mr Moon’s giant mouth to discover a Melbourne attraction not to be missed. 20% off with OVG coupon – refer to inside back cover.

Open: School holidays, weekends and public holidays from 11am 8 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda w lunapark.com.au e justforfun@lunapark.com.au

Arts Centre Melbourne Sunday Market

Every Sunday from 10am to 4pm, more than 80 local artisans fill Arts Centre Melbourne's lawn to showcase their unique, handmade goods, ranging from arts and crafts to freshly made edible delicacies. Everything on offer is produced locally, making the market a real favourite for those seeking one-of-a-kind treasures.

Open: Sun, 10am to 4pm 100 St Kilda Road, Melbourne t 1300 182 183 w artscentremelbourne.com.au

Visit the Carlton Brewhouse, located at Australia’s largest brewery and home of some of Australia’s favourite beers, including Carlton Draught and Victoria Bitter. Here you can go on a beer expedition, following the River of Beer through which 150,000 litres of fresh beer flows each day. Bookings essential!

Tram: Number 109 to stop 22 Open: Tue–Fri, 9am to 4pm & Sat, 11am to 4pm 24 Thompson Street, Abbotsford t 9420 6800 w carltonbrewhouse.com.au

Global Ballooning Australia

We've shared a sunrise with more than 90,000 people over 25 years. Gently float over the world’s most liveable city or the pristine countryside. Traversing the breeze, every journey is different.

Enjoy award-winning balloon flights over Melbourne city and the Yarra Valley 364 days a year (weather permitting). t 1800 627 661 w globalballooning.com.au Find us on:

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Carlton Brewhouse Brewery Tours

MCG TOURS Explore the inner sanctum of the MCG, walk on the hallowed arena and experience where legends play by taking a guided MCG tour!

Highlights of this must-see tour include the famous MCC Long Room, player change rooms, cricketers’ viewing room, the Ron Casey Media Centre, the Don Bradman and Sachin Tendulkar portrait, and a walk on the hallowed arena.* Tours are available all year round, departing regularly from 10am to 3pm inside Gate 3!

Visit mcg.org.au/tours for tour times on event days. *Tour route subject to availability and alteration.

NATIONAL SPORTS MUSEUM The National Sports Museum offers something for everybody all year round, highlighted by regular school holiday activities, the Game On! interactive gallery, 3D holograms (including Shane Warne), and Australia’s largest collection of sporting memorabilia.

Including displays of Australian football, cricket, Olympics, horse racing and much more, the museum is sure to please all sporting fans.

The National Sports Museum is open from 10am to 5pm every day inside Gate 3 of the MCG. Visit mcg.org.au/nsm for operating hours on event days.

20% DISCOUNT! SHOW THIS AD TO RECEIVE OFFER*

* Receive 20% off MCG Tour, National Sports Museum or combined ticket.

Not valid with any other offer. Promo code: GUIDE Gate 3, MCG mcg.org.au | nsm.org.au +61 3 9657 8879

St Kilda Esplanade Market

Come and find your treasure and shop handmade artisan goods at Melbourne’s best outdoor market by the sea. Set against the iconic backdrop of St Kilda Beach, our vibrant makers’ market features more than 150 unique stalls of hand-crafted artwork, jewellery, clothing and accessories, as well as a foodie zone.

An inspiring weekly destination for Melburnians and tourists alike.

The market runs from Luna Park all the way to Fitzroy Street. A great place to start when exploring St Kilda.

Tram: Number 16 or 96 to stop 138 Open: Every Sun from 10am Upper Esplanade, St Kilda w stkildaesplanademarket.com.au Find us on:

Enjoy a sightseeing cruise and discover the best of what Melbourne has to offer, while gently meandering your way through this river city. + Yarra Sightseeing Cruises + City and Williamstown Ferry

Special Offer: 2 for 1 offer on all Sightseeing Cruises and Williamstown Ferry Tours.

Open: Daily, 10am to 3.30pm Ticket Kiosk: Southbank Promenade Berth 5 t 8610 2600 w melbcruises.com.au

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Melbourne River Cruises

Australia

William Ricketts Sanctuary

Wander along the lush pathways of the William Ricketts Sanctuary and discover more than 90 beautiful clay sculptures of Indigenous figures half-hidden among rocks and tree ferns.

Created by William Ricketts and inspired by the culture and traditions of the Pitjantjatjara and Arrernte people of Central Australia, the forest gallery is the perfect place to enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of the Dandenong Ranges. Entry is free.

Make the most of your day with a picnic nearby in the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden or National Rhododendron Garden.

Train: Belgrave Line to Upper Ferntree Gully Station Bus: Number 688 from Upper Ferntree Gully Station Open: Daily, 10am to 4.30pm (except Christmas Day) 1402 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road, Mount Dandenong t 13 19 63 w parks.vic.gov.au

Visit Victoria’s Parliament House, one of Australia’s oldest and most architecturally distinguished public buildings. Construction began on the building in 1856, and it was home to the Federal Parliament from 1901 to 1927.

Free guided tours are provided on non-sitting days, Monday to Friday (groups of six or more must book).

Architecture tours are available on selected dates, and bookings are essential for this very popular tour.

On sitting days, come and see the Victorian State Parliament in action. Check website for details.

Public tours: Non-sitting days, Mon–Fri, 9.30am; 10.30am; 11.30am; 1.30pm; 2.30pm & 3.30pm Express tours: 1pm & 4pm Spring Street, East Melbourne t 9651 8568 w parliament.vic.gov.au/visit Find us on:

Half Page_OVG Spring 2017.indd 7

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Parliament House

Werribee Open Range Zoo Get onboard for a guided safari across the unique open range savannah and spot rhinos, giraffes and zebras! Come face to face with a pride of lions, visit one of the world’s largest gorilla exhibits, see cheeky monkeys at play and discover a family of hippos in their wetland home.

Just a 30 minute drive from Melbourne.

K Road, Werribee Public Transport: Take the Werribee line train to Werribee Station. Then take Bus Route 439 to Werribee Open Range Zoo.

Melbourne Zoo You won’t believe how many animals are at Melbourne Zoo! Visit roaming tigers, see eye to eye with orangutans and meet our family of elephants. Spy unique native wildlife in the Australian Bush setting and see playful penguins and seals.

Only 10 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD. Elliott Avenue, Parkville Tram: Take tram No. 55 from William St. Train: Take the Upfield line to Royal Park Station from Flinders St or Southern Cross stations.

HEalESvillE Sanctuary Wander through the tranquil tracks and meet iconic Australian animals including koalas, kangaroos, platypus, dingoes, wombats and emus. Enjoy feeding Australia’s best loved birds and don’t miss the thrilling shows and presentations.

An hour’s scenic drive from Melbourne.

Badger Creek Road, Healesville Coach: Group and private day tours to Healesville Sanctuary depart from Federation Square daily.

Kids are FREE! Children under 16 years of age receive free entry every weekend, during Victorian Government school holidays and on Victorian public holidays.

Open daily 9am to 5pm 1300 966 784 zoo.org.au

WELCO M E TO A WO R LD O F EN T E RTA IN M E N T Located on the Southern bank of the Yarra River, and with public transport right to the front door, Crown is the only destination in Melbourne where you will find over 70 restaurants, cafes, and bars with an enviable variety of worldclass dining options, plus free live entertainment every day of the week.

At Crown, there is a dining experience to suit every taste. From indulging at one of our awardwinning restaurants, while you enjoy the magnificent views of the Yarra River and the Melbourne skyline, or meeting friends for a drink at one of the 14 bars, you are sure to find somewhere that suits your mood.

There are also endless ways to be entertained – all in the one convenient location. From watching the latest blockbuster movie, to exploring Melbourne’s best bars and clubs, or catching a live show at The Palms, there is a world of entertainment for everyone.

Visit crownmelbourne.com.au

Puffing Billy Railway

Puffing Billy is Australia’s premier preserved steam railway and has been loved by generations for more than 100 years!

Journey through the magnificent forests and fern gullies of the Dandenong Ranges from Belgrave, only one hour east of Melbourne, every day except Christmas Day. Enjoy an authentic Excursion Train journey to Emerald Lake Park and Gembrook. Alternatively, you can travel first class in our luxury, fully enclosed dining carriages on the daily Steam & Cuisine Luncheon, or on one of the many evening dining experiences, which depart on selected Fridays and Saturdays.

Tours are offered by all major day-tour operators.

Train: Belgrave Line to Belgrave Station Open: Operates daily except Christmas Day 1 Old Monbulk Road, Belgrave t 9757 0700 w puffingbilly.com.au Find us on:

Located in the city’s waterfront precinct of Docklands, Melbourne Star is the perfect way to start your Melbourne visit. Hear stories of Melbourne’s origins and its place in the world while taking in views stretching up to 40 kilometres.

Special offer: present this ad for a 20% off full price general admission tickets.

Open: Daily; May–Aug, 11am to 7pm; Sep–Apr, 11am to 10pm; Christmas Day and ANZAC Day, 1pm to 10pm Last flight departs 30 minutes prior to closing time Last ticket sales 45 minutes prior to closing time Tram: Number 70, 86 or 35 to stop D11, free from CBD 101 Waterfront Way, Docklands t 8688 9688 w melbournestar.com Find us on:

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See & do

Melbourne Star Observation Wheel

Flemington Racecourse Market This family-friendly makers' market, located at the iconic Flemington Racecourse, features more than 200 stalls where passionate artisans sell premium quality Australian goods.

Plus, you can enjoy delicious street-style food on the lawn.

Open: Sun 27 Aug; Sun 17 Sep; Sun 15 Oct and Sun 17 Dec, 9am to 2pm. Fri 1 Dec, Twilight Market from 4pm to 9pm Tram: Number 57 to stop 29 Epsom Road, Flemington t 5976 3266 w craftmarkets.com.au

Arthurs Seat Eagle

Get ready to soar! Board a state-of-the-art gondola and fly over the state forest to the highest point of the Mornington Peninsula. Enjoy breathtaking views across the bay to the city as you soar above the trees. Travel in the safety and comfort of a contemporary gondola cabin as you fly between the Base Station in Dromana to the summit of Arthurs Seat.

Open: Daily, from 10am 1085 Arthurs Seat Road, Dromana t 5987 0600 w aseagle.com.au e info@aseagle.com.au

Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park

Melbourne’s award-winning wildlife park. Explore our bushland, meet endangered species, feed kangaroos, cuddle up to koalas and enjoy encounters with colourful birds, reptiles, dingoes and many other animals. Or come on a magical lantern-lit evening wildlife walk.

Close to Melbourne on the way to Phillip Island.

Open: Daily, 10am to 5pm 550 Tyabb-Tooradin Road, Pearcedale t 5978 7935 w moonlitsanctuary.com.au

Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm

Pick your own famous Sunny Ridge strawberries at our beautiful hinterland property. Treat yourself to heavenly desserts and delectable chocolate fondue in our strawberry cafe. Purchase seasonal fresh produce or peruse our retail shop for local gourmet products and gifts.

Open: See website for details 244 Shands Road, Main Ridge t 5989 4500 w sunnyridge.com.au Find us on:

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BRING IN THIS AD FOR 10% OFF*

DISCOVER MELBOURNE IN COMPLETE DARKNESS. The worldwide phenomenon has arrived in Melbourne.

Explore the unseen, and learn to see in complete darkness.

Dialogue in the Dark™ is one of the most unique, interesting, emotional and inspiring experiences I have ever had.

Greg Rafferty, Melbourne

OPEN DAILY EXCEPT MONDAYS Harbour Town Shopping Centre Star Crescent, Upstairs opposite Artvo

The concept of “Dialogue in the Dark” and its related trademarks are the intellectual property of Dialogue Social Enterprise GmbH.

dialogueinthedark.com.au Book now through

*Discount applies to full price General Admission tickets, purchased on site only with presentation of this ad. Subject to availability.

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V Hotel Spa

V Hotel Spa is a luxurious new parlour now operating in Melbourne's CBD. This hidden gem, where the exotic secrets of relaxation, rejuvenation and meditation are professionally practiced within an exquisite day spa ambience, can be found beneath the the Vibe Savoy Hotel.

V Hotel Spa offers a hydro-steam and spa bath, and the best massages, facials and body treatment in Melbourne. Deluxe product range is dedicated to holistic wellbeing, nurturing the body as well as the mind and spirit, while respecting the delicate balance of nature.

Trained and experienced therapists provide expert treatments that focus on your unique wants and needs.

Tram: Number 11, 12, 48, 86, 96 or 109 to stop 1 Train: Any train to Southern Cross Station Open: Daily, 10am to 9pm Lower Ground, 630 Little Collins Street t 9629 6600 w vhotelspa.com.au Find us on:

The RAAF Museum Free entry!

The RAAF Museum is home to an amazing range of historic military aircraft. A great chance to view these rare machines is at interactive ying displays every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday at 1pm (weather permitting).

The museum has a vast collection of historical material on show, including several hangars with static aircraft. It offers visitors an exciting experience and insight into the history of the Air Force.

Open: Tue–Fri, 9am to 3pm; weekends and public holidays, 10am to 5pm (closed Mondays, Christmas Day and Good Friday) RAAF Base Williams, Point Cook Road, Point Cook t 8348 6040 w airforce.gov.au/raafmuseum

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Experience Melbourne’s

SHADY PAST OPEN DAILY 9.30am to 5.00pm and select evenings.

377 Russell St, Melbourne oldmelbournegaol.com.au

A maritime adventure made for children Open weekends 10am to 4pm and daily during school holidays 21 South Wharf Promenade pollywoodside.com.au

Phillip Island Nature Parks

Only 90 minutes from Melbourne, Phillip Island offers a spectacular coastal environment with an abundance of Australian wildlife and exciting experiences. Experience the magic of little penguins crossing the beach at sunset at the world famous Penguin Parade. Choose from a range of viewing options including Penguins Plus or the Underground area for an up close view. A selection of ranger guided tours offer a unique and intimate viewing experience. The new Antarctic Journey offers handson fun and a state of the art multimedia experience.

The Wild Oceans EcoBoat takes a high speed adventure to Australia’s largest fur seal colony, while the Koala Conservation Centre and Churchill Island Heritage Farm encourage a more relaxed pace.

Open: Daily, from 10am 1019 Ventnor Road, Summerlands t 5951 2800 w penguins.org.au

Located in the heart of Melbourne, the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria is considered one of the world's finest gardens, offering visitors a calm oasis of beautiful plants and landscapes.

This spring, join one of our Indigenous guides on an Aboriginal Heritage Walk or experience a traditional punt tour on Ornamental Lake. Enjoy a relaxing scenic drive on the Garden Explorer bus, then recharge at one of our cafĂŠs, Jardin Tan or The Terrace. Visit the gift shop for a unique range of botanical-inspired homewares, books and gardening accessories.

Tram: Number 3, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67 or 72 to Stop 20 Bus: Melbourne Visitor Shuttle to stop 13 Open daily: 7.30am until sunset Melbourne Gardens, Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne t 9252 2300 w rbg.vic.gov.au Find us on:

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See & do

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

The Rose St. Artsists' Market Emily Fitzgerald

Neighbourhoods

Venture a few kilometres from the city centre to explore the history, culture and flavours of our vibrant urban villages.

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Word on the street

Anthea (38) from Southbank Admittedly, I haven’t tried a lot of French food before and I didn’t even know how to pronounce bouillabaisse, but I was curious to try the new House of Wine and Food (formerly the Cricketers Arms Hotel) in Port Melbourne since its makeover. The bistro and dining room are beautiful and we learned a lot about the history and tradition around this famous seafood stew, which tastes delicious. w thehouseofwineandfood. com

Sun Theatre, Yarraville

Yarraville

w villageidiom.com.au w sunbookshop.com w suntheatre.com.au f /hellogeloyarraville

Albert Park

Take a number 1 tram to the suburb probably best known as the location for the Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix and enjoy the spring sunshine at Albert Park. Breakfast or brunch at Hapsburg Empire is an ideal way to start the day, followed by some retail therapy on Bridport Street, including a stop at Filly’s Stable for designer threads, shoes and accessories. Venture a few blocks further to read a book or chill out on a picnic rug in St Vincent’s Gardens. Grab an early dinner at Kamel. It offers an express Middle Eastern and North African banquet for a budget-friendly $25 for guests who depart by 7pm.

Richmond

Jump on a number 70 tram to say “aloha, Richmond” with a helping of healthy Hawaiian fare at Maholo Poké. Browse the Bridge Road shopping strip, where you’ll discover a bargain or two in the big brand outlet stores or pick up some beautiful homewares and designer fashion.

After shopping up a storm, stop in at Bower Bird Bar for a drink, before dinner at Richmond Hill Cafe & Larder.

Neighbourhoods

Jump on a bike, or take a Werribee or Williamstown line train to Yarraville, and explore the eclectic stores in this inner suburb that has a friendly village vibe. Check out the gifts, gadgets and homewares at Village Idiom, then browse the brilliant books at Sun Bookshop and its sibling store Younger Son Bookshop, specialising in children’s literature.

Catch a movie at the stunning art deco Sun Theatre, followed by a delicious fruity ice-cream at Hello Gelo.

Maholo Poké, Richmond

w mahalopoke.com.au w bridgerd.com.au w bowerbirdbar.com.au w rhcl.com.au

f /hapsburgempire w fillysstable.com.au w kamelrestaurant.com

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Town Hall Gallery, Hawthorn

Lido Cinemas, Hawthorn

Hawthorn

Catch a number 75 tram to Riversdale/Glenferrie Junction to visit the latest exhibition at Town Hall Gallery at Hawthorn Arts Centre. Enjoy one of the citythemed burgers at Humburger (we, of course, recommend the Melburnian accompanied by disco fries), before checking out an arthouse flick at Lido Cinemas, which is hosting a Monster Movie Festival (22–26 November). w hawthornartscentre.com.au w humburger.com.au w lidocinemas.com.au

Welcome to Thornbury

Brunswick

Take a number 29 tram to Brunswick West to explore the unique melting pot of cultures, cool cafes and eclectic stores.

Start with breakfast at John Gorilla Cafe, where the avocado piquillo (avo on sourdough with poached eggs and piquillo peppers) comes highly recommended by locals in the know. Peruse the many vintage stores, selling everything from fashion to vinyl records, along Sydney Road. Be sure to stop at Melbourne Vintage for hip 70s threads. w johngorilla.com w sydneyroad.com.au f /melbournevintage.au

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Northcote

Take a number 86 tram to Northcote to catch a film at the cosy Palace Westgarth, where the homemade choc-tops are little lopsided but taste amazing. Check out some of the cute boutiques in the area, including Ike & Fly Collective for handcrafted clothing and accessories by independent designers, makers and artists.

Catch the tram further along High Street to Welcome to Thornbury for a bite to eat.

Here you’ll find food trucks and a huge beer garden, where the icy cold beverages include jugs of cocktails. w palacecinemas.com.au w ikeandflycollective.com.au w welcometothornbury.com

By the water Head west for lots of family fun in and around Altona.

01 Altona Beach

Kayla (49) from Sandringham I’ve lived in Sandringham all my life. There’s still a village vibe to the suburb and we’re close to the beach and plenty of great cafes. My favourites are Black Squirrel and Bluff Town. w blacksquirrel.com.au w blufftown.com.au

South Yarra

w isitcafe.com.au w prahranmarket.com.au w a-esque.com w chapeloffchapel.com.au

Post Office Hotel, Coburg

Coburg

Hire a car from Redspot Enterprise and head to Coburg for a nature walk along Merri Creek Trail, stopping at Dights Falls to take some photos.

Quench your thirst with an afternoon drink at the Post Office Hotel, then grab a prime parking spot at Village Cinemas Coburg Drive-in for a movie under the stars. w moreland.vic.gov.au w thepostofficehotel.com.au w villagecinemas.com.au

Take a stroll along the pier and soak up the scenery. If it’s Tuesday, peruse the goodies at the Altona Beach Market. w hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au

02 Between Two Buns

Grab a take-away burger, fries and milkshake, then head down the road for a seaside picnic. Order the loaded fries if you're feeling naughty. f /b2bburgers

03 Altona Miniature Railway

Neighbourhoods

Walk or take the tram to Chapel Street for breakfast at ISIT Cafe or, if you’d prefer something on the go, grab some freshly baked pastries from Noisette while you peruse the Prahran Market. Take a stroll along the fashionable shopping strip, checking out A-ESQUE’s selection of Melbourne-made bags and wallets. If time permits, catch a show at Chapel off Chapel.

Altona Beach

Prahran Market

Word on the street

If your small folks are crazy about trains, mark the third Sunday of the month in your diary for a ride on a scaled steam and diesel engine. w altonaminiaturerailway. com.au

04 Altona Coastal Park Bike Trail Feel the sea breeze as you pedal along the scenic trail from Altona Beach to Altona Coastal Park, while learning about local history on the 20to 30-minute ride. w hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au

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Did you know?

Brighton Beach’s 82 colourfully painted beach bathing boxes are world famous and a great backdrop for your photographs.

Brighton Beach

The Cake Collective

Moonee Ponds

Catch a Craigieburn line train to Moonee Ponds’ Queens Park for an afternoon wander around the beautiful oak trees, palm grove, lawns and lake. Bring a book to read with a coffee and treat at the park’s twin cafes, Curators Collective and The Cake Collective. Next stop is Strangeloves Bar to enjoy an interesting wine or local beer in a courtyard booth. w mvcc.vic.gov.au w curatorscollective.com w thecakecollective.com.au f /strangeloves

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Ruffey Lake Park

Preston

Take a South Morang line train to Preston Station to explore the rambling Preston Market, which has more than 130 stalls, including fresh produce, artisans and fashion. After the hustle and bustle of the market, chow down on some juicy slow-cooked brisket in a bun (just don’t call it a burger) at Dexter. There’s a great selection of Victorian beers, too. w prestonmarket.com.au w dexter.melbourne

Doncaster East

Hire a Redspot Enterprise car and cruise down the Eastern Freeway towards Doncaster. Stop at Westfield Doncaster for a little retail therapy, before pushing on to Three Monkeys Place for brunch. Those who frequent this little gem of a cafe say the Sweet Monkey fried roti pancakes keep them coming back. With a full stomach, jump back in the car to Ruffey Lake Park for a leisurely walk or to throw the frisbee. w westfield.com.au/doncaster w threemonkeysplace.com.au w manningham.vic.gov.au

In the know

Kelly's favourites As a lifetime Werribee resident, here are some of Kelly’s top picks for great places to visit, eat and drink in the area: Werribee Mansion

Kelly Hobbs Zoo keeper, Werribee Open Range Zoo

I love horses, so the Melbourne International 3 Day Event at Werribee Park National Equestrian Centre is always a highlight.

“We also have a daily keeper talk, which is a great opportunity to

Treat

I love going to the spa at the Mansion Hotel & Spa — it’s definitely a birthday treat! interact with our visitors and share some of the amazing stories about the gorillas and how they can help protect them.

“Every day I am lucky enough to work with these incredible animals and I love to share their unique traits and habits with our visitors.”

Place

For a great place to see local wildlife, the Werribee River is a must.

Connect with Werribee Open Range Zoo: w zoo.org.au/werribee /zoosvictoria @zoosvictoria @zoosvictoria

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Neighbourhoods

“We have three silverback gorillas — Motaba and his sons Yakini and Ganyeka — at Werribee Open Range Zoo and each of these guys has his own individual diet and enrichment program, so they keep us busy,” she explains.

A great spot to stop for a coffee is Chatterbox Cafe in the main street of Werribee.

Event

There’s an old saying that you should never work with children or animals, but Werribee Open Range Zoo’s Kelly Hobbs does both.

For the past 17 years, Kelly has spent much of her time taking care of the zoo’s western lowland gorillas, tending to their health, nutrition and wellbeing.

Cafe

Sunbury

Melbourne Airport Broadmeadows

Melton

Keilor

Airport West

St Albans Caroline Springs

Essendon Moonee Ponds Flemington

Sunshine

Footscray Seddon

Melbourne

neighbourhoods Hoppers Crossing

Werribee Point Cook

Wyndham Harbour

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Yarraville Spotswood

Newport

Altona

Williamstown

Port Phillip Bay

Epping

Hurstbridge

Diamond Creek

Thomastown

Kangaroo Ground

Bundoora Greensborough Eltham Pascoe Vale Preston

Coburg

Brunswick

Northcote

Parkville

Melbourne

Docklands

South Melbourne

Doncaster Kew

Richmond

Port Melbourne

Bulleen

Ivanhoe

Carlton Collingwood North Melbourne Fitzroy

Hawthorn

South Yarra Toorak

Camberwell

Burwood

Armadale

St Kilda

Box Hill

Canterbury

Mitcham

Ringwood

Wantirna

Glen Waverley

Caulfield

Brighton

Oakleigh

Wheelers Hill

Bentleigh Mulgrave Clayton South

Hampton

Springvale

Noble Park

Sandringham Beaumaris

Rowville

Mentone Mordialloc

Dandenong

Doveton

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Neighbourhoods

Prahran Windsor

Elsternwick

Warrandyte

Templestowe

Heidelberg

Williamstown, Altona, Newport & Spotswood

Art in Public Places, Altona Pier

Explore the inner-west’s heritage, culture and waterfront locations. It's the perfect day trip — close to the CBD yet a world away.

Waterfront Williamstown Historic charm mixes freely with a contemporary lifestyle showcasing cafes and restaurants overlooking a picturesque waterfront in Melbourne’s oldest suburb. Board the HMAS Castlemaine, a floating museum, or visit Seaworks maritime precinct. Experience a seaplane flight, ghost tour, Titanic adventure, railway museum and more. Take one of three selfguided tours and visit more than 300 shops in a friendly main street setting, including more than 70 restaurants, bars and cafes. Take the ferry from Southgate or the train to Williamstown station.

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HMAS Castlemaine, Williamstown

Beach town Altona

Stroll the beach, spot the birds, walk the pier then watch the sun set over the bay as you dine at one of a selection of restaurants and bars. With the beach and a tree-lined reserve adjacent to the shopping area, Altona is a destination with something for everyone. Accessible beach matting is in place throughout spring. Take the train to Altona station.

Cultural Newport

The Substation is one of Melbourne’s most exciting contemporary arts destinations.

Housed in a former electricity substation, it provides the opportunity for artists and audiences to connect in a unique space, with challenging, thoughtprovoking cultural experiences.

Check out the website below for up-to-date program information.

Take the train to Newport station. w thesubstation.org.au

Historic Spotswood

Home of Scienceworks, the Melbourne Planetarium, cool cafes and Australian history. Head to Scienceworks where you can explore, unearth and unveil the inner workings of the world. See a show at Melbourne Planetarium then download the Spotswood industrial heritage tour app to see the set of Mad Max, where Ned Kelly’s armour was made and the home of the infamous stubbie.

Later, head to nearby Hudsons Road, Spotswood, or Two Birds Brewery in Hall Street. Take the train to Spotswood station. w museumsvictoria.com.au/ scienceworks

Biking and walking

Markets Regional Farmers Market, Williamstown Second and fourth Sunday of the month, 9am to 1pm w rfm.net.au Williamstown Craft Market Third Sunday of the month, 10am to 4pm w williamstowncraftmarket.com.au Altona Beach Market Every Tuesday, 9am to 3pm

What’s on 1 September – 28 November Free guided heritage walking tours Every Tuesday and Friday from 11.45am to 12.45pm. Contact the Visitor Information Centre on 9932 4310.

1–30 September Art in Public Places A month-long, multi-venue celebration of art and ideas.

Highlights include: Light up Logan Logan Reserve, Altona A program of projections, lights, sculpture and sound, in a beautiful beachside location.

Channels Festival The Substation, Newport An Australian video art festival. w artinpublicplaces.com.au 10 September AstroLight Festival Scienceworks A night starring astronomy and light at Scienceworks in Spotswood from 6pm to 10pm.

23 September Sea Shepherd Melbourne's Stand Fast Festival 2017 Seaworks, Williamstown Celebrating 40 years on the front line of marine conservation.

12 October Out on the Weekend Seaworks, Williamstown A celebration of Americana music, lifestyle and good times.

November Melbourne Aces baseball Take the train to Laverton Station to enjoy the professional baseball season. w melbourneaces.com.au

Visitor information Hobsons Bay Visitor Information Centre Commonwealth Reserve, Williamstown Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm (except Good Friday) t 9932 4310 w visithobsonsbay.com.au w dyob.com.au/hobsonsbay

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Neighbourhoods

Hobsons Bay is blessed with 23 kilometres of paved walking and cycling trails set along a stunning coastline. Take the punt across the Yarra River, start at Spotswood and set your own course passing through Williamstown, Altona and beyond.

Look out for public artworks and markers along the trail.

Substation, Newport

Werribee Open Range Zoo

Werribee & surrounds Just 30 minutes from the city and en route to the famed Great Ocean Road is one of Victoria’s holiday playgrounds. Don’t miss it!

Werribee and its surrounds have so much to offer visitors this spring.

Werribee Visitor Information Centre Train: Werribee Line to Werribee Station Bus: Route 439 from Werribee Train Station to Werribee Park and Werribee Open Range Zoo Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm Werribee Park Tourism Precinct, K Road, Werribee t 8734 6006 w experiencewyndham.com.au /experiencewyndham /experiencewyndham

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Shadowfax Winery, Werribee

Spring is the perfect time to visit the Werribee Park Precinct, especially the amazing Werribee Open Range Zoo. Meet the keepers and enjoy an authentic African ‘safari’ adventure … It’s wild!

Take the chance to visit the superb Victoria State Rose Garden which, with more than 5,000 different roses, is going to be looking its bloomin’ best right about now as the lovely spring roses come into flower.

While you’re with us, don’t forget to taste awardwinning food and wine at the famous Shadowfax Winery, and why not indulge yourself with a night or two at the gorgeous Werribee Park Mansion Hotel and Spa?

Neighbourhoods

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Kew Junction

Boroondara’s top experiences Whether you like rising at dawn to strike vintage gold, dream about unwinding in a manicured park after a soulful brunch or enjoy sampling world-class art and culture, Boroondara has an outlet for your passion. These five defining encounters are your guide to eating, shopping and exploring Melbourne’s inner east.

The heart and soul of this community can be found in its many villages and shopping precincts where 19th-century architecture now houses boutiques, artful cafes and fine-dining establishments. Then there are the more recent comers, emerging, family-friendly centres where locals gather for breakfast, lunch and dinner and rejoice in their surroundings.

Circle your way around Camberwell Fresh Food Market for rare cheeses, a bouquet of violets and storybook strawberries

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Swoon, Hawthorn

that lend new meaning to the term market-fresh.

Take in an exhibition by a leading contemporary artist at the Town Hall Gallery, an audacious art space housed in the historic Hawthorn Arts Centre.

Unearth a predawn bargain at Rotary's Camberwell Sunday Market — Melbourne’s official mecca for shift dresses, preloved leather jackets and seventies sun hats worthy of Fleetwood Mac. w boroondara.vic.gov.au

Getting there

Train: Belgrave or Lilydale Line to Auburn, Hawthorn, Camberwell or Glenferrie Station Tram: Number 16, 48, 70, 72, 75 or 109

Sydney Road Brunswick is an atmospheric shopping strip of culture and quirkiness, with an array of edgy cafes, restaurants, pubs and live music venues. The comprehensive range of retail, design boutiques and grocery outlets will give you a whole day …around the world.

Neighbourhoods

Eat, Drink Discover Shop!

A unique shopping strip One of the city’s most interesting inner suburbs, and located just ten minutes from Melbourne’s CBD. The no.19 tram will take you to this hub of activity, day or night. The Sydney Road Brunswick experience offers a unique insight into the rich diversity of Melbourne life, in all its multitude of aromas, tastes, sounds and activities. @SydneyRoadBrunswick

@SydneyRoadBrunswick

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Phillip Island

Regional Victoria Head out of the city to discover the diversity and beauty of Victoria’s regions.

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Word on the street

Margaret (40) from Ballarat

Sovereign Hill, Ballarat

Ballarat

Ballarat

Follow the Western Freeway to Ballarat to discover the region’s gold rush history and beautiful buildings on a Ballarat Heritage Tour. Next, it’s time for a spirited visit to Kilderkin Distillery, the latest addition to Ballarat’s burgeoning brewery and booze scene.

Check into Best Western Plus Ballarat Suites, directly opposite Sovereign Hill, then rug up before the award-winning heritage park’s spectacular light show in the evening. Before heading home, check out the Ballarat International Foto Biennale (until 17 September), showcasing some of the most exciting and innovative Australian and international photographers, including David LaChapelle. w visitballarat.com.au

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I think eating at Dan Hunter’s restaurant Brae in Birregurra should be on every foodie’s bucket list. It may take a little time to get a reservation, but the whole experience is incredible, with amazing seasonal flavours and presentation that is pure art. w braerestaurant.com

Great Ocean Road

Great Ocean Road

It’s one of the world’s finest drives, so hire a car from Redspot Enterprise for an adventurous trip along the Great Ocean Road. Stop at the region’s newest attraction, Trees Adventure Otway Park, in Yeodene, where you can swing, leap, climb and fly through the forest canopy on a ropes course. Head next door to Planet Mud Outdoor Adventures for a session of paintball, zorbing or Segway gliding. Relive your day’s highlights over dinner at Captain Moonlite, within the Anglesea Surf Lifesaving Club. Get a good night’s sleep at BIG4 Anglesea Holiday Park.

Next morning drive to Torquay for a walk along the foreshore, before lunch overlooking the waves at Fisho’s on the Esplanade. w visitgreatoceanroad.org.au

Hot springs in spring Get a spring in your step with a mineral bathing session at one of Victoria’s regional wellness retreats.

Bendigo

Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa

01 Peninsula Hot Springs Bendigo

Bendigo

Yarra Valley

Hire a car from Redspot Enterprise and head to the valley of vines: Yarra Valley. Stop

by Coombe Yarra Valley — The Melba Estate, once the home of famous Australian opera singer Dame Nellie Melba, for brunch and a walk around the gardens.

Venture a little further to Rochford Wines for a wine tour with a difference — on a Segway. Drop into the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery before turning back towards Melbourne. w visityarravalley.com.au

w peninsulahotsprings.com

02 Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa

Feel the rejuvenating powers of the plunge pools and saunas at this destination spa in Hepburn Springs, a town synonymous with mineral waters and wellness. w mineralspa.com.au

03 Japanese Mountain Retreat

Luxuriate in natural mineral waters heated to 37 to 40 degrees at this zeninducing resort in the Dandenong Ranges. w japanesemountainretreat. com.au

w bendigotourism.com

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Regional Victoria

Bendigo is an easy day trip by car, coach or train from Melbourne.

Start your visit with a hearty breakfast at Cortille Cafe before boarding the vintage Talking Tram. The hop-on, hop-off tour takes in many of the city’s sights while telling stories about its history as a gold discovery hot spot during the 1850s. Next stop is Bendigo Art Gallery to check out The Costume Designer: Edith Head and Hollywood (until 21 January), featuring more than 70 film costumes designed by the eight-time Academy Award winner from the 1930s to the 1960s. Enjoy a late lunch at Rocks on Rosalind and a wander around the sweeping streets and grand heritage buildings before heading home.

Yarra Valley

Soak away your stresses at Victoria’s first thermal mineral springs and day spa, which offers more than 20 bathing experiences on the Mornington Peninsula.

Word on the street

Tony (38) from Armstrong Creek

Baywalk Bollard Trail, Geelong

Eastern Beach in Geelong is a great place to take the kids on a sunny day. You can look at the boats bobbing around in the bay.

Sometimes we throw in a fishing line from the little jetty at St Helens Park. The view from the ferris wheel is also pretty awesome. w visitgeelongbellarine.com.au

Queenscliff

Geelong and the Bellarine

Hire a car from Redspot Enterprise and hit the road to Victoria’s second largest city, Geelong. Stop off at Eastern Beach Pier, stretch your legs along the boardwalk and check out the 100 colourful wooden sculptures on the Baywalk Bollard Trail. Push on to Jack Rabbit Vineyard for lunch and some wine tastings accompanied by stunning views over Swan Bay. Jump back in the car and head to the seaside village of Queenscliff to check into your accommodation at Athelstane House. If your trip is in late November, the Queenscliff Music Festival (24–26 November) draws a big crowd and this year’s line-up includes Bernard Fanning and The Temper Trap. Next morning, visit the Queenscliff Maritime Museum before boarding the Searoad Ferry to Sorrento so you can explore the Mornington Peninsula. w visitgeelongbellarine.com.au

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Arthurs Seat Eagle

Mornington Peninsula

Take the scenic one-hour drive to the Mornington Peninsula, making Enchanted Adventure Garden your first stop. For the next few hours, lose yourself in the three hedged mazes and try tree-surfing, ziplining and tube-riding. After stocking up at the lolly shop, head to the Arthurs Seat Eagle for a chairlift ride to the highest point of the peninsula, providing incredible views. Venture into Portsea for a delicious dinner and overnight stay at the Portsea Hotel. w visitmorningtonpeninsula.org

Ninety Mile Beach

High Country

High Country

w visitkingvalley.com.au

East Gippsland

Pack the car and follow the Princes Freeway towards East Gippsland. Make a detour after the pretty township of Stratford to have lunch at Lindenow’s Long Paddock. Make your way to Buchan Caves Reserve to check into a (pre-booked) Parks Victoria Wilderness Retreat.

Enjoy being close to beautiful flora and fauna, including kangaroos that are happy to be handfed. Next morning, take a tour of the incredible limestone caves. Head home via Lakes Entrance, stopping for a stroll along Ninety Mile Beach. w visiteastgippsland.com.au

Lake House, Daylesford

Daylesford and Macedon Ranges

Hire a car from Redspot Enterprise and set off for the township of Daylesford, famous for its high concentration of naturally occurring mineral springs. Visit the Convent Gallery, before heading 10 minutes’ north for lunch at Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm. Next up is a soak and sauna at Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa in Hepburn Springs. Hold on to that peaceful vibe with an overnight stay at Lake House Daylesford, enjoying a meal made with the finest local produce at the award-winning restaurant. w dmrexplore.com.au

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Regional Victoria

For a gourmet getaway to King Valley, a region renowned for fine food and family-run wineries, hire a car from Redspot Enterprise and hit the open road. Upon arriving, settle into your luxurious accommodation at the new Lusso KV, before setting off for some cool-climate wine tastings along the Prosecco Road food and wine trail, incorporating Dal Zotto, Brown Brothers and Pizzini. During spring, King Valley celebrates its La Dolce Vita Festival (18–19 November), with local wineries offering special events, live music, children’s entertainment and master classes.

Buchan Caves

Great Ocean Road Brewhouse

Mark's favourites Here are some of Mark’s top picks for the Great Ocean Road region:

Walk 91

In the know

Mark Kininmonth Owner, Walk 91, Great Ocean Walk

Mark Kininmonth must have the world’s most picturesque office.

He organises and hosts walking tours along the magnificent Great Ocean Walk, which stretches along the coastline from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles.

As a Parks Victoria Ranger in the early 2000s, Mark was heavily involved in the construction of the Great Ocean Walk, sparking his decision to create Walk 91, offering self-guided customised hiking tours of the picturesque trail.

“The name Walk 91 was a reference to the original track

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length of 91km,” he says. “It’s now 104km, split into sections so that you can hop on and off the trail.

“We provide customised tours of three, four, five, six or seven days to suit the novice walker through to experienced hikers.

“Travelling on foot, rather than in a car or bus, means you truly experience the ruggedness of the coastline and feel the winds through forest and valleys.

“My favourite section of track is from Milanesia Gate to Gables, for its challenging undulations and spectacular clifftop views.”

Pub

For more than 100 varieties of craft beers from around the region and other parts of Australia, check out the Great Ocean Road Brewhouse.

Restaurant

Apollo Bay’s Bay Leaf has a warm, friendly atmosphere and the food is great.

Treat

The scallop pie from Apollo Bay Bakery is impossible to resist.

Beach

Johanna Beach is absolutely stunning.

Connect with Walk 91: w walk91.com /walkninetyone

Exploring regional Victoria

From wineries to gardens and galleries, V/Line trains, buses and coaches can take you all over regional Victoria.

Enjoy a trip to Bendigo and take in sculpture and ceramics at one of Australia’s oldest regional art galleries, or make your way to Geelong for some

salty sea air and a journey along the Great Ocean Road.

Victoria’s rural street art capital is just a train trip to away, with Benalla in the northeast boasting murals created by world-class artists.

Simply make your way to V/Line’s passenger hub at Southern Cross Station and we’ll be happy to help you plan your next getaway.

Start planning your trips on the PTV app, visit the website or call the number below. w ptv.vic.gov.au t 1800 800 007

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Regional Victoria

With the largest public transport network in Australia, you can enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

Self-drive

Adventures Hit the open road to discover Victoria’s regions at your own pace on a self-drive tour.

Go Beyond Melbourne

Travel from Melbourne to the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges, Phillip Island and on to the white beaches and wineries of the Mornington and Bellarine Peninsulas. Put together a three-, four- or five-day journey winding through lush valleys and pristine coastal landscapes.

Sydney–Melbourne touring routes

Chart a course from Melbourne to Sydney (via Canberra) on the Heritage Drive, exploring historic gold rush towns, award-winning vineyards and the mighty Murray River along the way. Alternatively, the 1160-kilometre Coastal Drive hugs the southeast coast of Australia, taking in national parks, pristine beaches and amazing native wildlife.

Great Southern Touring Route

The 850-kilometre Great Southern Touring Route takes in the breathtaking beauty of the Great Ocean Road, rich Aboriginal culture in the Grampians and the intriguing history of the Goldfields.

Great Alpine Road

The Great Alpine Road extends from the High Country region to East Gippsland, winding through lofty mountains, pine forests, bushland and past rivers, vineyards and farms. The 308-kilometre touring route got its name for being the mountain equivalent of Victoria’s famous Great Ocean Road.

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Toll roads

Some major roads around Melbourne carry tolls, which means you need to pay to use them. If you use the CityLink or EastLink toll roads, you’ll need to pay in advance or within three days of travel via the applicable operator’s website (see below).

Alternatively, you can call CityLink or EastLink (see website for phone numbers) to make a payment over the phone, or purchase a pass over the counter at a post office.

If you are hiring a car, check with your hire company to see if toll payments are taken care of as part of the hire fee. w citylink.com.au w eastlink.com.au

Get touring

The best way to get around Melbourne and the surrounding regions is with a great-value rental car. Redspot Enterprise will have you sorted with a comfortable and safe car that’s the right size for your travel party and suitable for the terrain you’ll be driving through while sightseeing. Vehicle pick-up and drop-off is available at Melbourne Airport, in the city on Little Collins Street and in South Melbourne on Thistlewaite Street. t 1300 668 810 w redspot.com.au

It’s not just a must see.

It’s a must drive.

Take in the magnificent scenery and wildlife on a South-east Triangle self-drive tour. And the best way to experience the Yarra Valley, Dandenong Ranges, Mornington Peninsula and Phillip Island is with a hire car from Redspot Enterprise.

Call 1300 668 810 or visit redspot.com.au. *Quote code DESTMELB for a 10% discount on time and kilometres. GPS based on availability.

Driven by you.

Halls Gap

Grampians

Bendigo

Ararat

He Castlemaine

Daylesford

Creswick

Dunkeld

Ballarat

Woodend

Daylesford & The Macedon Ranges

Geelong & The Bellarine Peninsula

Me Geelong

Portarlington

Ocean Grove Torquay

Warrnambool

Great Ocean Road

Apollo Bay

Mornington Peninsula

12 Apostles

Distance from Melbourne Geelong & The Bellarine Bendigo Ballarat

The Murray

Mornington Peninsula

Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges

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75km / 47mi 147km / 91mi 115km / 71mi 214km / 133mi 55km / 34mi 60km / 37mi

Gippsland

Great Ocean Road

188km / 117mi 207km / 128mi

Phillip Island

142km / 88mi

High Country

308km / 191mi

Daylesford & Macedon Ranges Grampians

113km / 70mi 254km / 158mi

So

The Murray

Bright Mount Beauty

Nagambie

eathcote

High Country

MansďŹ eld

Marysville Healesville

elbourne

n

Myrtleford

Shepparton

Echuca

Port Phillip Bay

orrento

Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges

Lakes Entrance

Gippsland

French Island

Regional Victoria

Phillip Island

Mt Baw Baw

Wonthaggi Inverloch Wilsons Promotory

Regional

Victoria

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Explore Bendigo

Pall Mall, Bendigo

As the warmer days and clear skies appear in late September, 30,000 of Bendigo’s famed tulips open to brighten the beautiful heritage streets.

A vibrant regional city, Bendigo’s beautiful streets are the legacy of one of the world’s greatest gold rushes.

Explore them to discover the heart of Bendigo.

Its arts culture is led by the acclaimed Bendigo Art Gallery. Visitors can dine at award-winning restaurants and cafes, and unearth unique fashions and collectables. Relive the gold rush by visiting our world-class attractions, and taste quality local wines and produce from markets, nearby farms, and surrounding vineyards.

Bendigo is only a 90-minute drive from Melbourne Airport and 90 to 120 minutes via V/Line trains from Southern Cross Station.

Bendigo Visitor Centre

Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm (closed Christmas Day) 51–67 Pall Mall t 1800 813 153 w bendigotourism.com /explorebendigo @explorebendigo @explorebendigo

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What’s on September Harvest Moon Festival Dai Gum San Chinese Precinct 1–4 September Bendigo International Festival of Exploratory Music View Street Art Precinct 29 September – 21 January The Costume Designer: Edith Head and Hollywood Bendigo Art Gallery 6–15 October Bendigo Uncorked Week – A week-long celebration of wine and heritage Various locations across Bendigo 7–8 October Heathcote Wine and Food Festival Heathcote Showgrounds 9–12 November Bendigo Blues & Roots Music Festival Various locations across Bendigo

Gardens of the Dandenong Ranges The gardens of the Dandenong Ranges are a riot of colour in spring and perfect for a memorable day out with family and friends. Just one hour from Melbourne, these grand landscaped gardens were originally created as shady summer retreats for wealthy local families.

Train: Metro to Belgrave or Croydon Station Bus: To Olinda or Sherbrooke from Belgrave or Croydon Station Car: The Dandenong Ranges are approximately 50km from Melbourne, via Burwood Highway or Canterbury Road Open: Daily (excluding Christmas Day and days of total fire ban or severe wind risk) t 13 19 63 w parks.vic.gov.au

In spring, see a carpet of colour at the National Rhododendron Garden as thousands of daffodils, rhododendrons, cherry blossoms, azaleas and camellias burst into flower. Discover hidden secrets among the tranquillity of rock gardens, ponds and waterfalls in the stunning Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden. Or stroll along the hillside terraces of Pirianda Garden and the shady pathways of the George Tindale Memorial Garden, where exotic trees and lush ferns blend harmoniously in dappled light and spring flowers blossom in abundance.

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Regional Victoria

Now free to visit, the gardens are enchanting settings where you can wander along paths winding through luxuriant tree ferns and majestic gum trees, or picnic on green lawns framed with flowering plants and leafy deciduous trees.

Geelong

& The Bellarine

Geelong, Victoria’s second largest city, has emerged from its past as a manufacturing town to be reinvented as a city with an enviable lifestyle.

Incredible places to eat and drink dotted throughout precincts across the city, combined with a fresh approach to culture and a sparkling event calendar, make Geelong an ideal destination to explore.

Half an hour from the city in any direction leads to deliciousness.

In the Moorabool Valley and across the Bellarine, produce is grown in farm fresh air alongside some of Australia’s most awarded wineries and vineyards.

Around the Bellarine, towns overlook bays and oceans. You’ll find great coffee, secret shopping spots and fun activities, all with a fresh sea breeze. You needn’t travel far to feel like you’re a million miles away. This coast is the perfect escape; a place to enjoy days as action-packed as you want them to before

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relaxing and falling asleep to the sounds of the sea.

Geelong is only an hour from Melbourne by car or regular trains that run from Southern Cross Station. The Bellarine is a 90-minute drive from Melbourne or ferry from the Docklands. w visitgeelongbellarine.com.au

What’s on 25 October Geelong Cup 28 October – 10 December Archibald Prize Geelong Gallery 4–5 November Toast to the Coast Various wineries on the Bellarine, Moorabool Valley and Surf Coast 24–26 November Queenscliff Music Festival 24–26 November Geelong Revival Motoring Festival Geelong Waterfront

Toast to the Coast

Visitor information centres Geelong Visitor Information Centre 26 Moorabool Street, Geelong Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm t 5222 2900 t 1800 755 611 (toll free)

Bellarine Visitor Information Centre 1251–1269 Bellarine Hwy, Wallington Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm t 5250 6861 t 1800 755 611 (toll free) ueenscliff Visitor Q Information Centre 55 Hesse Street, Queenscliff Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm t 5258 4843 t 1300 884 843 (toll free) w visitgeelongbellarine. com.au

DOCKLANDS – PORTARLINGTON

The Bellarine just got closer

SAILING 7 DAYS A WEEK

Escape the city for a day trip to the coast for under $30 return.

Wineries | Golf | Coastal escape | Seafood

www.portphillipferries.com.au

Art Gallery of Ballarat Tony Evans

A season of

regional art

Spring in Ballarat is characterised by the blooming of arts and culture. This season, make the journey to this historic goldfields city and enjoy all the wonder and beauty that awaits.

Art Gallery of Ballarat

Mitchell Harris Wine Bar

Day one Celebrate the skull

Head into the Art Gallery of Ballarat, Australia’s oldest regional art gallery. Located on one of the city’s most beautiful boulevards, the gallery will have you in awe. Make sure to check out the gallery’s Romancing the Skull exhibition, celebrating the representation of the skull in pop culture and exploring life beyond the mortal world.

Contemporary food

Feast your eyes on one of the city’s gourmet eateries housed within spectacular heritage architecture. Restaurants such as Craig’s Royal Hotel, Catfish Thai and The Forge, or bars including Mitchell Harris Wines and the Basement Bar will appease your tastebuds while their buildings offer fascinating stories of days gone.

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Day two Discover the hidden gems

Explore Ballarat’s ever-increasing offering of galleries and museums.

Head to The Lost Ones Gallery and delight in the contemporary and quirky art housed in an 19thcentury Masonic lodge, or admire the work of budding artists at the Post Office Gallery.

Cafe brilliance

Settle in to one of our prized cafes for a modern and morethan-satisfying lunch. Find your spot at Kittelty’s, located on the ground floor of the Art Gallery of Ballarat, for artisan, local fare, or visit Webster’s Market and Cafe for a premium caffeine hit accompanied by some contemporary cuisine.

Romantic night out

Finish your visit with a night out on the town. Hit up Her Majesty’s Theatre for a theatrical experience laden in history, or visit one of several live music venues such as Karova Lounge or Suttons House of Music to catch some of the country’s biggest music acts.

Getting there

Jump aboard a V/Line train from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station and you’ll arrive in the heart of the CBD in just over an hour with a gorgeous view of the countryside along the way. t 1800 44 66 33 w visitballarat.com.au

Craig’s Royal Hotel Located on historic Lydiard Street in the heart of beautiful Ballarat, Craig’s Royal Hotel is a destination in itself.

Stay in one of the 41 luxurious rooms or suites, where elaborate attention to detail is evident in every finishing.

Enjoy a coffee and cake in Craig’s Cafe & Larder and local produce store, or a drink in the legendary Craig’s bar, with its antique carved Australian cedar detail.

10 Lydiard Street South, Ballarat t 5331 1377 w craigsroyal.com.au /craigsrh @craigsroyalhotel

Dine in The Gallery, where you can enjoy breakfast or lunch basking in the sun-drenched conservatory or dinner under the stars. The seasonal menu produced by head chef Shannon Easton highlights some of the best local produce on offer, matched with an extensive wine list, featuring both local and international wines.

If you’re looking to entertain, why not host a private party in the original bluestone cellar? Or if you’re looking for a beautiful historical wedding space, celebrate your special day in any of the three stunning banquet rooms.

If you’re ready to experience the extraordinary, then it’s time you experienced Craig’s.

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Regional Victoria

The legendary Australian gold-rush era grand hotel is a true icon of the Victorian period. Opening in 1853, it has played host to poets, princes and prime ministers over its 160-year history. Now, after extensive restoration, the magnificent accommodation, dining experiences and business facilities offered are also establishing Craig’s as a modern-day icon.

Sovereign Hill

The story of an important time in Australian history, and the people who were there, lives on. Named Australia’s best Major Tourist Attraction four times, most recently in 2016, Sovereign Hill re-creates the 1850s gold rush.

There’s real gold to be panned, an underground gold mine, street theatre and costumed goldfields characters. See a spectacular $150,000 gold pour and chat with skilled craftsmen. Sovereign Hill’s Gold Museum displays an impressive exhibition of gold and Ballarat history.

By night, the entertainment continues with the soundand-light spectacular ‘Blood on the Southern Cross’.

Stay overnight at Sovereign Hill Hotel.

Train: V/Line service from Southern Cross Station to Ballarat Station Bus: Number 9 from Ballarat Station Open: Daily, 10am to 5pm (closed Christmas Day) Bradshaw Street, Ballarat t 5337 1199 w sovereignhill.com.au

Ballarat Wildlife Park

Only 90 minutes west of Melbourne, at Ballarat Wildlife Park, you can get up close and personal with some of Australia’s most famous native animals, including kangaroos, koalas, a variety of reptiles ranging from snakes to lizards and even giant tortoises. See a 3.5 metre long anaconda, tasmanian devils, Victoria's only komodo dragon and you cannot miss Crunch, our 660kg, 5 metre long super croc.

Take a leisurely stroll around the park and enjoy handfeeding 100 free-roaming kangaroos. You won’t want to miss our new little penguins of Ballarat exhibit either.

Join one of our free guided keeper tours throughout the day, and why not ask our friendly staff about a personal Animal Encounter, which includes close contact with your chosen animal and a professional photograph as a memento of the occasion?

250 Fussell Street, Ballarat East t 5333 5933 w wildlifepark.com.au Find us on:

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Regional Victoria

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Howey Place

Useful information

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Melbourne Airport

With four terminals servicing arrivals and departures, Melbourne Airport is Victoria’s gateway to the world.

More than 305 million passengers use the airport each year, and there are plenty of ways to spend your time before your plane takes off.

Terminal 1

Home to Qantas’ Melbourne domestic aircraft, Terminal 1 has more than 60 retail outlets, offering a broad range of products and services. Whether it’s the latest fashions, a new magazine or just some travel essentials, there’s something for everyone.

Fashion labels such as Victoria’s Secret, Mimco and Sunglass Hut will ensure you’re suitably dressed for any occasion, while restaurant Billie Chu brings a taste of Asia to travellers, offering a range of exciting dishes. Throw in a number of other cafes, bars and fast food outlets, and there’s a meal for any traveller.

Terminal 1

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Terminal 2 Artist impression

Terminal 2

Terminal 3

The upcoming new luxury fashion and dining precinct will showcase Melbourne’s renowned food culture and also present an array of 11 of the world’s most desirable luxury fashion brands in the relaxed ambience that only upscale airport shopping can provide.

Terminal 4

Since all our international travellers arrive and depart from Terminal 2, the delivery of a truly world-class food and retail experience is an important focus for us.

Terminal 2 Artist impression

Terminal 4 is Melbourne Airport’s newest terminal.

It opened in August 2015 and features new technology, including automated check-in kiosks and bag-drop facilities, as well as an expanded departure lounge and more shopping and food choices.

Among the extensive list of retailers are household names Country Road and Witchery, and exclusive brands, such as international fashion label Desigual. One of Melbourne’s favourite eateries, Brunetti Café, is also on hand to provide a tasty way to spend your time before flying off on your Jetstar, Tigerair or Regional Express flight. w melbourneairport.com.au

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Useful information

Along with that there’ll be the unique value and convenience of the new Melbourne Duty Free. The result will be a luxury shopping environment that’s not to be missed.

Virgin Australia operates from Melbourne Airport’s Terminal 3, which is located at the left end of the main airport building, directly adjacent to the International Terminal. One of the most popular venues in the airport is PJ O’Brien’s Irish pub, with Able Baker Charlie another favourite for authentic Italian food.

Getting into

Melbourne After touching down at Melbourne or Avalon Airport, you have a number of options for making your way into the city.

SkyBus

SkyBus operates 24 hours, seven days a week and provides an express service every 10 minutes from Melbourne Airport to Southern Cross Station in the city.

There are three SkyBus stops just outside Terminal 1, Terminal 3 and Terminal 4. Tickets can be bought online and shown to the driver in paper form or on your smart phone. Alternatively, you can visit one of the SkyBus ticket booths near the terminals. A oneway trip to the city costs $18 per adults and $18 to $36 for families. w skybus.com.au

StarBus

StarBus Melbourne Shuttle Service offers transfers from Melbourne Airport to your accommodation in the CBD or inner suburbs. The service runs seven days a week from 6am to 9pm, with departures every 20 minutes. The StarBus leaves from Bus Zone L (otherwise known as Groups and Charters). Bookings can be made online or via phone.

The price for a one-way trip to the city is $18 per adult and $20 to $25 for most inner urban destinations. w starbusshuttle.com.au

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Taxi

You can catch a taxi from designated taxi ranks located on the ground floor outside Terminal 1 and between Terminal 2 and 3 at Melbourne Airport.

If you’ve pre-ordered a taxi to pick you up from the airport, the driver will park in the short-term car park and should meet you at the baggage carousel.

Taxi fares vary based on distance, location and time of travel. You can use the taxi fare estimator on the Taxi Services Commission’s website to obtain an approximate cost. w taxi.vic.gov.au

Hit the road with Redspot

If you like the idea of deciding where you want to go and for how long, then a hire car from Redspot Enterprise will provide that freedom. Pick up the keys to your temporary set of wheels at Melbourne Airport and let the adventure begin. Redspot Enterprise has all-inclusive packages that are great value, and also offers hire of GPS devices and booster seats for young travellers. w redspot.com.au

Avalon arrivals

If you’re flying into Avalon Airport, you can now catch a ride to Southern Cross Station in Melbourne’s CBD on a SkyBus Avalon Express.

Meeting all departing and arriving flights, passengers will have access to free Wi-Fi, easy ticketing options and a regular, reliable service. You can buy tickets online or at dedicated e-kiosks at Avalon Airport or Southern Cross Station’s Airport Gateway.

One-way tickets from Avalon to the city are $22 for adults (or $42 return); children 16 and under travel free when booked with an adult fare.

Avalon Airport also has a taxi rank directly outside the terminal and bookings can be made by calling 131 008.

For travellers disembarking at Avalon and heading to Geelong, Bellarine or the Surf Coast, you can also catch a lift on a SkyBus shuttle. A one-way ticket to Geelong Train Station is approximately $18. Skybus has reached an agreement with local company Geelong Taxi Network to provide pick-up and dropoff services throughout Geelong, Bellarine and the Surf Coast for reservations made through SkyBus. w skybus.com.au

SkyBus

SkyBus offers a frequent, convenient and reliable service between Melbourne Airport to the heart of the city operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. SkyBus St Kilda Express, Avalon Airport Service and FAPAS (Frankston and Peninsula service) operate seven days a week.

Book a pick-up or drop-off on our free hotel/ city shuttle throughout the CBD, Southbank and Docklands precincts. Enjoy free on-board Wi-Fi on all our services. Our ‛kids travel free’ policy makes it easier and more affordable for travelling families. Purchase e-tickets online, at our Southern Cross Station Gateway or at our booths kerbside at Melbourne Airport Terminals 1, 3 and 4.

For operating hours and service timetables on our City Express, St Kilda Express, FAPAS and Avalon services, please visit our website. t 1300 SKYBUS w skybus.com.au Find us on:

Avalon Airport

If you want to touch down and drive straight out to enjoy the sights, choose Avalon Airport. Avalon is the most efficient and economical airport in Australia.

It’s only 40 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD, which is now easier than ever to reach through the newly launched SkyBus Avalon City Express.

Avalon Airport is also the closest domestic airport to the Great Ocean Road, Bells Beach, Geelong and the 12 Apostles.

Bus: SkyBus Avalon City Express to/from Southern Cross Station via Werribee or Avalon Airport Shuttle to/from Geelong, the Bellarine & the Surf Coast Open: Daily, 4am to midnight 80 Beach Road, Lara t 5227 9100 w avalonairport.com.au Find us on:

135

Useful information

Drive straight up the highway, park out the front, grab a drink or meal and stay connected with free Wi-Fi, while charging all your devices in comfort right by the gate. It really is flying made easy.

Getting around From trams and trains to bike hire and ferries, here’s all you need to know about getting around Melbourne.

Tickets

myki is your ticket to travel on trains, trams and buses in Melbourne and many parts of regional Victoria. To get started, buy a myki Explorer pack or myki card.

myki Explorer

Enjoy a ready-to-use myki card with one day’s unlimited travel on public transport in Melbourne.

Your pack also includes handy maps, a souvenir wallet and discounts to lots of our favourite places.

If you want to keep travelling, just top up your myki at a huge range of shops, myki machines or online. To find out where to buy yours, visit the website below. w ptv.vic.gov.au/mykiexplorer

Buy your myki card and top up

You can buy and top up your myki at a huge range of shops (including all 7-Eleven stores), myki machines and station ticket offices. As a guide, $10 will get you around Melbourne for a day, with a little change.

For more on fares, visit the website below. w ptv.vic.gov.au/fares

Plan your journey

Download the PTV app or visit the website below to plan your journey and get real-time travel updates. w ptv.vic.gov.au

136

Free tram travel

The Free Tram Zone includes the city centre and extends from Queen Victoria Market to Docklands, Spring Street, Flinders Street Station and Federation Square (see the Melbourne tram map on page 138).

If you’re only travelling in the Free Tram Zone you don’t need a myki.

Travel on the City Circle Tram is also free. Hop on and off the historic trams as often as you like. You don’t need a myki if you’re only travelling on the City Circle Tram.

PTV Hubs

To find out more about public transport in Melbourne and Victoria, visit a PTV Hub at Southern Cross Station or 750 Collins Street, Docklands.

Night Network

Night Network is about giving everyone a convenient and affordable way to travel later.

Night Network includes all-night public transport on weekends, with all-night metropolitan trains, trams, late-night buses, and a 2am coach service to key regional centres. Stay out longer and enjoy Melbourne's vibrant nightlife, popular hot spots and special events throughout the year.

Skybus

Skybus is a direct service between Southern Cross Station and Melbourne Airport that operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The buses depart every 10 minutes in both directions and stop at Terminals 1, 3 and 4. Skybus also offers a free City Hotel Shuttle service to an extensive list of hotels and hostels in the CBD and inner suburbs (check the website for the list of participating accommodation providers). If you’re heading to St Kilda, Elsternwick, Elwood, Brighton, Frankston or Mornington Peninsula, Skybus runs services to these places, too. w skybus.com.au

Melbourne Bike Share

Melbourne Bike Share allows locals and visitors aged 15 or older to hire a set of wheels (and helmet) from one of 50 public bike racks across the CBD. You can borrow and return bikes at any of the racks across the borrowing network. Bikes can be hired for as little as $3 per day and $8 per week (providing you with unlimited 30-minute trips) using VISA or Mastercard. For everything you need to know about the bike sharing program, including pricing and rack locations, visit the website. w melbournebikeshare.com.au

Pedicabs (three-wheel bike taxis) are a fun and carbon-neutral way to get around the CBD. See Green Cabs’ website for booking information, operating hours and fare estimates.

Catching a Melbourne Water Taxi can be a smart way to beat the traffic or purely enjoy a scenic ride to your destination. There’s a regular service between Southgate, Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Park and the MCG for major events, such as football matches and concerts. Water taxis operate on the Yarra and Maribrynong Rivers seven days a week, day and night. w melbournewatertaxis.com.au

Car hire

Plan on doing lots of travelling far and wide? A great way to get around Melbourne and its surrounds is in a rental car. Redspot Enterprise will have you sorted with a comfortable and safe car that’s the right size for your travel party (think little and zippy or large and luxurious). Vehicle pick-up and drop-off is available at Melbourne Airport and in the city (Little Collins Street). w redspot.com.au

Taxis

Taxis can be hired off the street, from designated taxi ranks or by phone/online bookings. There are taxi ranks all over the CBD (refer to the Melbourne City map on page 154), including four safe city taxi ranks for late-night travellers. Taxi fares vary based on distance, location and time of travel. You can use the taxi fare estimator on the Taxi Services Commission’s website to obtain an approximate cost.

Between 10pm and 5pm, Victorian taxi drivers are allowed to ask for an upfront deposit for the trip fare. Melbourne’s major taxi companies are 13 CABS, Silvertop Taxis and CABiT. w taxi.vic.gov.au w 13cabs.com.au w silvertop.com.au w cabit.com.au

Useful information

Pedicabs

Melbourne Water Taxi

w greencabs.net.au

137

Driving

around town Road rules

Traffic laws in Victoria may be different to those in your home city. Below are some of the major traffic rules that apply in Victoria to keep road users safe and ensure traffic flows efficiently. ++ Drivers are required to carry a licence at all times. International Driver Licences are acceptable for up to three months, however you will require a Victorian Drivers Licence after this period. ++ Australians drive on the lefthand side of the road, which can be initially disconcerting for visitors used to driving on the right. ++ Drivers and passengers are required to wear seatbelts.

Infants must be restrained in baby capsules and small children in an appropriate booster seat.

++ Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol carries serious penalties. In Australia, you are not permitted to drive a car if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.05 or higher. If you hold a probationary or provisional driver’s licence, your blood alcohol level must be zero at all times.

Traffic near trams

Cars share the roads with trams on many streets in Melbourne.

With these trams come some important rules about driving near them: ++ Tram lanes are designated by a tram lane sign (that may indicate hours of operation) and continuous yellow line.

You must not drive in a tram lane during the times it is operational, except for up to 50 metres before turning, so long as you do not obstruct the progress of a tram. ++ You may only overtake a tram on the left. ++ Do not drive past the rear of a tram stopped at a tram stop (where there is no safety zone, dividing strip or traffic island). ++ You must stop level with the rear of the tram and wait for people to get on and off.

The tram doors must be closed again before proceeding.

Bicycle lanes

Bicycle lanes are indicated by a bicycle lane sign and a continuous or broken white line. You must not drive in a bicycle lane during the times it is operational, except for up to 50 metres before turning or when parking.

Some particular driving manoeuvres that are used in Melbourne are described below.

Hook turns

Due to tramlines running down the middle of major city streets, there are some intersections where cars turning right need to do so from the left lane. The vehicle remains there until the traffic lights for the road it's entering turn green, then carefully executes its turn. See onlymelbourne.com.au for a short video demonstration of how to perform a hook turn.

U-turns

To perform a U-turn, a driver makes a 180-degree turn to head back in the direction from which they came. The simple rule to remember is drivers performing U-turns are required to give way to other vehicles and pedestrians. In Victoria, drivers are allowed to make U-turns at intersections with or without traffic signals and at breaks in the median unless there is a ‘No U-turn’ sign.

Visit the VicRoads website For more information about Victoria’s road laws and guidelines for appropriate child restraints. w vicroads.vic.gov.au

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Useful information

++ Speed limits are clearly marked (generally 50km/h or 60 km/h in built-up areas and 100 km/h on open roads) and police operate speed safety cameras across Victoria.

Driving is an efficient way to get around during your time in Melbourne, but read on to familiarise yourself with our road rules before taking to the street.

140

Useful information

141

City of

Melbourne Visitor Services

Visitors will find much to love in Melbourne. On every street and laneway, there are shopping, dining and cultural experiences to discover. It’s all here – let a local show you the way.

Melbourne Visitor Centre at Federation Square

City Ambassadors

Open daily from 9am to 6pm (closed Christmas Day)

Mon–Sat, 10am to 4pm; Sun noon to 3pm (excluding Good Friday and Christmas Day)

A one-stop shop for visitors providing information on Melbourne and Victoria; what’s on in the city; maps; brochures; souvenirs; plus a travel booking service.

Melbourne Visitor Booth in the Bourke Street Mall

Dressed in their distinctive red uniforms, City Ambassadors provide a mobile information service in the city and can help with advice on shopping, events and how to get around.

Friendly volunteers at the Melbourne Visitor Booth provide free maps and information on shopping, attractions and what’s on in Melbourne.

Open daily from 9am to 5pm (closed Good Friday and Christmas Day)

Fitzroy Gardens Visitor Centre

Your first stop when visiting the heritage-listed Fitzroy Gardens. Find out about current events and attractions, purchase your Cooks’ Cottage tickets and merchandise, and enjoy the cafe and free Wi-Fi facilities.

Open daily from 9am to 5pm (closed Christmas Day)

142

Melbourne Visitor Centre at Federation Square

Fitzroy Gardens Visitor Centre

Melbourne Greeter Service

Enjoy a free, two- to four-hour walking orientation of the city, conducted by a trained volunteer.

Orientations in English depart the Melbourne Visitor Centre at Federation Square daily. Orientations in other languages are available on select days.

Departing daily at 9.30am (excluding Good Friday and Christmas Day). Bookings are essential.

Phone 9658 9658 on weekdays and 9658 9942 on weekends or visit the What's On website link in the contact details listed below.

Melbourne Visitor Hub at Hamer Hall

The Melbourne Visitor Hub at Hamer Hall is positioned at the gateway to Melbourne’s creative and cultural precinct. Speak with City of Melbourne’s friendly and knowledgeable volunteers to help plan your visit, including what to do and see in Melbourne and for information on the precinct. The Melbourne Visitor Hub at Hamer Hall is fully accessible with restroom facilities available, a riverside cafe and free Wi-Fi.

Melbourne Town Hall Tours

Free one-hour tours of the historic Melbourne Town Hall give visitors the chance to learn about the architectural, social and political significance of this impressive 19th-century building.

Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri 11am & 1pm (excluding public holidays).

Cooks’ Cottage

A visit to Cooks’ Cottage in the heritage-listed Fitzroy Gardens is a must when exploring Melbourne. Step back in time and learn about life in the 18th century with centuries-old antiques, a delightful English cottage garden, information on James Cook’s adventures and volunteers dressed in 18th-century costumes.

Open daily from 9am to 5pm (closed Christmas Day)

24/7 guide to What’s On in Melbourne

For more information on events, restaurants, shopping destinations and things to do in Melbourne city visit the website below. Share your favourite city experiences using #melbmoment w whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au

Useful information

Open daily from 10am to 5pm

Cooks' Cottage

t 9658 9658 w whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au e visitor@melbourne.vic.gov.au /whatsonmelb @whatsonmelb @whatsonmelb

143

Traveller

tips

Wondering where to get your hands on visitor information, buy tickets to a show or what to do in an emergency? Here is a handy reference guide and tips to help your trip run smoothly.

Time zone

Melbourne is located in the Australian Eastern Time zone.

Standard Time is UTC/GMT +10 hours. Daylight Saving Time is UTC/GMT +11 hours and commences at 2am on 1 October.

Weather

During spring (September to November), Melbourne’s average temperatures during the day are 9.6 to 19.6°C (or 49.3 to 67.3°F).

For daily weather forecasts check the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) website. w bom.gov.au

144

Luggage lockers

Be sun smart

Various sized lockers are available at Southern Cross Station and hire ranges from $10 to $16 for 24 hours. Travellers Aid offers short-term luggage storage at Flinders Street Station between 8am and 8pm daily (same day only, not overnight). For costs, visit the website.

w sunsmart.com.au

Lockers are available for hire at several locations throughout Melbourne.

w southerncrossstation.net.au w travellersaid.org.au

Too much of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation can cause painful sunburn. Australia has some of the highest UV levels in the world, so it is important to apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing such as a shirt, hat and sunglasses if you’re spending time outdoors. Visit the SunSmart Victoria website to check the daily UV index and alerts.

Smoking laws

Victoria has strict laws on where people are permitted to smoke tobacco as well as e-cigarettes and personal vaporisers.

Smoking is not allowed in or around outdoor areas where food is served (alfresco dining), train stations and platforms, public transport, cars carrying passengers under the age of 18 years, learning environments and schools, children's play areas, shopping centres, and enclosed spaces that are workplaces (to protect the health of employees, customers and public).

Some particular CBD precincts that have been declared smokefree: QV Melbourne and The Tan running track among others.

Visit the website below for full details of smoke-free locations and smoking laws in Melbourne. w melbourne.vic.gov.au

Accessible Melbourne

Improving accessibility to Melbourne’s public transport, visitor attractions, events, venues and amenities for people with special mobility needs is a major priority of the Victorian Government and City Council.

Maps and resources The City of Melbourne offers a variety of downloadable Mobility Maps on its website covering the different city precincts. Lonely Planet also offers a free Accessible Melbourne e-book packed with tips and recommendations for travellers with special needs.

Other useful online resources for accessible travel and recreation throughout Victoria and Australia are provided by Australia For All and NICAN. w melbourne.vic.gov.au w lonelyplanet.com/ accessible-melbourne w australiaforall.com w nican.com.au Assistance & support

Travellers Aid

The below support numbers can be of service during an emergency.

Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance) 000 Lifeline (Counselling/crisis support) 131 114 Poisons Information 131 126 Nurse-On-Call 1300 606 024

Police stations Melbourne East 226 Flinders Lane, Melbourne East 9637 1100

Melbourne West 313 Spencer Street, Docklands 8690 4444

Major hospitals

Epworth Hospital 89 Bridge Road, Richmond 9426 6666 Royal Melbourne Hospital 300 Grattan Street, Parkville 9342 7000 St. Vincent’s Health 41 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy 9288 2211

Useful information

Travellers Aid Access Services provides travel-related support and aid, including accessible toilets, showers, equipment loan and a rest area. It provides advice and assistance to older and frail people, and people with disabilities to ensure safe passage. This not-for-profit operation has been helping travellers for almost 100 years. Some services attract a small fee, but many are performed free of charge by staff and volunteers.

Travellers Aid Access Services is located at Southern Cross Station (available weekdays from 10am to 5pm and weekends from 11am to 4pm) and Flinders Street Station (open seven days from 8am to 8pm).

In an emergency

The Alfred Hospital 55 Commercial Road, St Kilda 9076 2000 The Royal Children’s Hospital 50 Flemington Road, Parkville 9345 5522

w travellersaid.org.au

145

Southgate

Shopping/bank hours

As a general guide, large shopping centres and specialty stores are open from 9am to 5.30pm, Monday to Saturday (except Friday when stores tend to stay open longer). Sunday shopping centre opening hours are usually 10am to 5pm.

Most banks are open 9.30am to 4pm Monday to Thursday and 9.30am to 5pm Friday. Most banks are closed on weekends. ATMs are open 24 hours.

Currency exchange

The currency used throughout Australia is the Australian dollar (AUD). Foreign money can be exchanged for Australia dollars at banks and currency exchange desks at the airport and other locations (such as currency kiosks at shopping centres) around Melbourne.

Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS)

A 10% goods and services tax (GST) is incorporated into the price of all goods and services sold in Australia, except some basic items. Under the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) you can claim a refund of the GST and wine equalisation tax (WET) that you pay on goods you have purchased during your stay.

To claim a refund you must: ++ spend $300 (GST inclusive) or more in the one store and retain your invoices ++ h ave purchased the goods no more than 60 days before your departure from Australia ++ wear or carry the goods on board the aircraft or ship and present them along with your original tax invoice, passport and international boarding pass to a Customs and Border Protection Officer at a TRS facility. w border.gov.au

146

Tipping

Unlike other countries, tipping is not customary and generally not expected, although it is appreciated.

City postal services

Melbourne GPO 250 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne Mon–Fri, 8.30am to 5.30pm Sat, 9am to 5pm. w auspost.com.au

Laundry services

To find the nearest coin-operated launderette, go to yellowpages. com.au and search under ‘Laundromat and self-service laundries’ and your location (i.e. suburb).

Public phones

Public phone boxes are dotted throughout the city and can be used for local, interstate and international calls (mobile and landline numbers). Local calls cost 50 cents, while long-distance calls are charged depending on duration. You can use either coins or prepaid phone cards.

Alternatively, prepaid SIM cards for mobile phones can be purchased at retailers across the city.

To make an international phone call, dial 0011 (the international access code), then the country code followed by the telephone number, including area code.

Consulates

All of the following countries have consulates in Melbourne: America

9526 5900

China

9822 0604

France

9690 6075

Germany

9642 8088

Greece

9866 4524

India

9384 0141

Indonesia

9525 2755

Italy

9867 5744

Japan

9679 4510

United Kingdom

9652 1600

Visa information

For comprehensive information about visitor visas, bridging visas and transit visas, visit the Australian Government’s Department of Immigration and Border Protection website.

Ticket booking services Tickets for major events, theatre productions, exhibitions and attractions can be booked and bought through a number of vendors, including Ticketek and Ticketmaster.

Halftix is a great way to save money on last-minute bookings.

Located in the Melbourne Town Hall Administration Building on Swanston Street, Halftix sells tickets to events on the day at a discount.

Arts Centre Melbourne also has a ‘tixatsix’ offer. At 6pm each night, at least 20 tickets become available for selected evening performances for just $30. Tickets must be booked in person from the Box Office on level five of the Theatres Building. w ticketek.com.au w ticketmaster.com.au w halftix.com w artscentremelbourne.com.au

w border.gov.au

Frequently called country codes

Australia 61 Canada 1 China 86 Germany 49 Greece 30 Indonesia 62 Ireland 353 Italy 39 Japan 81 New Zealand 64 Spain 34 Taiwan 886 UK 44 USA 1

Free public Wi-Fi is available in Melbourne CBD including CBD train stations, Bourke Street Mall, Queen Victoria Market and South Wharf Promenade at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The VicFreeWiFi pilot is managed and maintained by telecommunications company TPG and allows for the download of up to 250MB per device, per day. It does not require personal information or feature pop-up advertising.

To login to VicFreeWiFi: 1. Look up available networks on your device 2. Select 'VicFreeWiFi' 3. Accept the terms and conditions VicFreeWiFi is also available in two regional Victorian cities: central Ballarat and central Bendigo.

As you explore Melbourne CBD, use VicFreeWiFi to contact family and friends, book accommodation, get directions, book tickets to events or find restaurants and cafes.

Visit the website below to find your nearest outdoor VicFreeWiFi hotspot. w vic.gov.au/wifi

147

Useful information

Hong Kong 852

Fast and free Wi-Fi

Flinders Street Station

Frequently asked

questions New to Melbourne? Here are the answers to common travel questions.

Where can I rent a car in Melbourne?

Redspot Enterprise will have you sorted with a comfortable and safe car that’s the right size for your travel party and suitable for the terrain you’ll be driving through while sight-seeing. Vehicle pickup and drop-off is available at Melbourne Airport, in the city on Little Collins Street and in South Melbourne on Thistlewaite Street t 1300 668 810 w redspot.com.au

What’s the best way to get around the city?

What are the public transport options in Melbourne?

Melbourne’s public transport system is an ideal (and costeffective) way to explore every pocket of the city and further afield. The extensive train, tram and bus network stretches from the city into surrounding suburbs and regional areas. For more information about public transport, refer to page 136.

148

What type of ticket do I need to use public transport in Melbourne?

myki is the name of Melbourne’s public transport ticketing system and covers travel on trains, trams and buses. International and interstate visitors can purchase a myki Explorer Pack that includes: a myki smartcard (a credit card-sized plastic card that is effectively your ticket) pre-loaded with enough credit for one day’s unlimited travel in metropolitan Melbourne; instructions on how to use myki; handy maps; discount offers at many tourist attractions (over $200 value); and souvenir wallet. A full fare pack for an adult is $15; child and concession packs are $7.50.

The myki Explorer Pack is available from the PTV Hub at Southern Cross Station, Melbourne Visitor Centre at Federation Square and SkyBus terminals at Melbourne Airport and Southern Cross Station.

Are there any free ways to travel around the city?

Melbourne has a Free Tram Zone in the CBD and Docklands.

You don’t need a myki to ride any tram in this zone. However, if you travel anywhere outside this zone, you will need to touch on with a valid myki card. See the map in the inside back cover for zone boundaries.

You can also see Melbourne on the free City Circle Tram, an iconic W-Class tram that travels past major attractions and shops.

If you're only travelling on the City Circle Tram, you don't need a myki.

Bourke Street Mall

Where can I find public bathrooms or accessible public bathrooms around Melbourne?

Public bathrooms can be found throughout the city. For locations, please refer to the map in the inside back cover.

Where can I find travel-related assistance and help?

City Ambassadors and the Melbourne Greeter Service are local experts who know everything there is to know about Melbourne. They offer useful advice and assistance and can be found at a variety of locations. For more information, refer to page 142. You can also visit a PTV Hub at Southern Cross Station, 750 Collins Street, or in the Melbourne Visitor Centre at Federation Square for public transport information.

Where can I exchange currency for Australia dollars?

Foreign money can be exchanged for Australian dollars at banks and currency exchange desks at the airport and other locations (such as currency kiosks at shopping centres) around Melbourne.

Where can I buy discounted tickets to shows and events?

Halftix is a great way to save money on last-minute bookings. Located in the Melbourne Town Hall Administration Building on Swanston Street, Halftix sells tickets to events on the day at a discount.

Arts Centre Melbourne also has a Tixatsix offer. At 6pm each night, at least 20 tickets become available for selected evening performances for just $30. Tickets must be booked in person from the Box Office on level five of the Theatres Building. w halftix.com w artscentremelbourne.com.au/ tixatsix

w travellersaid.org.au

149

Useful information

The Travellers Aid Access Services operates from both Southern Cross and Flinders Street train stations, offering personal care and assistance for senior, disabled or disadvantaged travellers, as well as information, referrals for accommodation, showers, rest facilities, internet access, and transport and travel information. The Travellers Aid Access Services at Southern Cross are available weekdays from 10am to 5pm and weekends from 11am to 4pm. The Flinders Street service is open seven days from 8am to 8pm.

Where can I get face-toface information about what to do and how to get around Melbourne?

Advertiser index Shop

Dialogue in the Dark

Australian By Design

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Central Equity Apartments

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Collins Place

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p.91

Dracula's p.88 Eureka Skydeck

p.80

Flemington Racecourse Market

p.90

Global Ballooning Australia

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Healesville Sanctuary

p.86

IceBar Melbourne

p.76

Last Minute Day Tours

p.93

LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre

p.79

MCG Tours

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Melbourne Cup Carnival

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Melbourne River Cruises

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Melbourne Star Observation Wheel

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Melbourne Zoo

p.86

Melbourne's Luna Park

p.81

Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park

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MTB Adventures

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National Sports Museum

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Old Melbourne Goal

p.94

Parliament House

p.85

Phillip Island Nature Parks

p.95

Polly Woodside

p.94

Puffing Billy Railway

p.89

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

p.95

Royal Melbourne Show

p.77

Arts & Culture

SEA LIFE Melbourne

p.78

888 Collins — Light House p.61

St Kilda Esplanade Market

p.83

ACMI — Wallace & Gromit and Friends: The Magic of Aardman p.60

Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm

p.90

The RAAF Museum

p.92

Bendigo Art Gallery — The Costume Designer: Edith Head & Hollywood p.68

V Hotel Spa

p.92

IMAX Melbourne

p.64

Werribee Open Range Zoo

p.86

Melbourne Museum

p.64

Wildlife Tours Australia

p.84

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra

p.62

William Ricketts Sanctuary

p.85

Collins234 p.33 Downies Coins & Collectables

p.37

Harbour Town Melbourne

p.36

Johnston Jewellers

p.37

Lightning Ridge Opal Mines

p.38

Queen Victoria Market

p.32

The Block Arcade

p.34

Tivoli Jewellers

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Eat & Drink

Amora Hotel Riverwalk Melbourne

p.47

Bombini Buzz

p.48

Bridge Road Richmond

p.49

Brunetti — Melbourne Airport

p.51

Café Vue Express — Melbourne Airport

p.51

Colonial Tramcar Restaurant

p.48

Southgate Melbourne

p.46

The Hotel Windsor

p.47

The Pancake Parlour

p.48

Transit Rooftop Bar

p.49

Arts Centre Melbourne

p.63

Melbourne Theatre Company — Hay Fever p.2 NGV — The House of Dior: Seventy Years of Haute Couture p.59 Old Treasury Building Opera Australia — The Merry Widow

p.65 p.160

Shrine of Remembrance

p.65

State Library Victoria

p.67

The Australian Ballet — Alice's Adventures in Wonderland p.58 The Wheeler Centre presents The Festival of Questions

p.66

See & Do

Arthurs Seat Eagle

p.90

Arts Centre Melbourne Sunday Market

p.81

Autopia Tours

p.84

Bunyip Tours

p.76

Cafebus Winery Tours

p.84

Carlton Brewhouse Brewery Tours

p.81

Crown Melbourne

p.87

150

Neighbourhoods

Sydney Road Brunswick

p.109

Werribee & Surrounds

p.107

Regional Victoria Ballarat Wildlife Park

p.128

Craig's Royal Hotel

p.127

Gardens of the Dandenong Ranges

p.123

Port Phillip Ferries

p.125

Sovereign Hill

p.128

Useful Information Avalon Airport

p.135

Redspot Enterprise

p.119

SkyBus p.135 TramTRACKER p.110 Travellers Aid

p.130

Accommodation index refer to maps on pages 152-155 Melbourne CITY MAP

GRID REF

39

Rydges Melbourne | 9662 0511

F2

1

Adelphi Hotel | 8080 8888

E3

40

Sheraton Melbourne Hotel | 9240 1000

F2

2

Alto Hotel on Bourke Eco Friendly | 1800 135 123

C2

41

Sofitel Melbourne on Collins | 9653 0000

F3

3

Aria Hotel Apartments | 8102 3990

C4

42

Somerset on Elizabeth | 1800 766 377

E2

4

Atlantis Hotel Melbourne | 9600 2900

C2

43

Stamford Plaza Melbourne | 9659 1000

F2

5

Causeway 353 Hotel | 9668 1888

D2

44

The Langham Hotel, Melbourne | 1800 858 662

E3

6

Causeway Inn on the Mall | 9650 0688

E2

45

The Paramount Serviced Apartments | 9251 5555

F2

7

Citadines on Bourke Melbourne | 1800 766 377

F2

46

Treasury on Collins Apartment Hotel | 8535 8535

D2

8

City Limits Hotel Apartments | 9662 2544

F2

9

Crossley Hotel Melbourne | 9639 1639

F2

10

Crown Metropol Melbourne | 9292 6211

C4

11

Crown Promenade Melbourne | 9292 6688

C4

12

Crown Towers Melbourne | 9292 6868

D3

13

Crowne Plaza Melbourne | 9648 2777

C3

14

DoubleTree by Hilton Melbourne – Flinders Street 9654 6888

E3

15

Four Points by Sheraton Melbourne Docklands 1800 073 535

A1

16

Fraser Place Melbourne | 9669 6888

F2

17

Grand Hyatt Melbourne | 9657 1234

F3

18

Pan Pacific Melbourne | 9027 2000

B3

19

Holiday Inn Melbourne on Flinders | 9629 4111

C3

20

Hotel Casueway | 9660 8888

E2

21

ibis Styles Melbourne, The Victoria Hotel | 9669 0000

E2

22

InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto | 9627 1400

D3

23

Jasper Hotel | 8327 2777

E1

24

Melbourne Marriott Hotel | 9662 3900

F2

25

Short Stay Apartments, Melbourne CBD | 1800 008 910 C2

26

Short Stay Apartments, MP Deluxe | 1800 008 910

27

Short Stay Apartments on Lonsdale | 1800 008 910

C2

28

Short Stay Apartments on Power | 1800 008 910

D4

INNER Melbourne MAP

GRID REF

47

Abode by Easystay | 8598 0251

48

Amora Hotel Riverwalk Melbourne | 9246 1200

E4 F2

49

Crest On Barkly | 9537 1788

E4

50

Easystay Studio Apartments | 8598 0255

E4

51

Lyall Hotel and Spa | 9868 8222

E3

52

Melbourne Parkview Hotel | 1300 785 453

E3

53

Miami Hotel Melbourne | 9321 2444

C1

54

PARKROYAL Melbourne Hotel | 8347 2000

C1

55

Punthill Essendon | 1800 331 529

B1

56

Punthill South Yarra Grand | 1800 331 529

E3

57

Punthill Williamstown | 1800 331 529

A2

58

Quest Hawthorn | 8803 7700

G2

59

Royce Hotel | 9677 9900

E3

60

The Blackman | 1800 278 468

E3

61

The Cullen | 1800 278 468

E3

62

The Larwill Studio | 1800 278 468

C1

63

The Olsen | 1800 278 468

F3

C4

Short Stay Apartments on Whiteman | 1800 008 910

C4

30

Short Stay Apartments, Southbank Collection 1800 008 910

D4

31

Pegasus Apart'Hotel | 9284 2400

D1

32

Pullman Melbourne on the Park | 9419 2000

G3

33

Punthill Flinders Lane | 1800 331 529

E3

34

Punthill Little Bourke | 1800 331 529

F2

35

Punthill Manhattan | 1800 331 529

F3

36

Punthill Northbank | 1800 331 529

C3

37

Quay West Suites Melbourne | 9693 6000

E3

38

Radisson on Flagstaff Gardens Melbourne | 9322 8000

D1

Published by Destination Melbourne Melbourne’s Tourism Organisation w destination.melbourne e marketing@destination.melbourne

This guide uses paper from internationally certified sustainably managed forests and is printed at a plant that holds the ISO14001 Environmental Management System certification.

The following organisations have actively endorsed this publication as the Official Visitor Guide to Melbourne While every attempt has been made to ensure accurate information at the time of going to press, the publishers accept no responsibility for supplied information or omissions.

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50% OFF OPALS, PEARLS & DIAMONDS

10% OFF FOODIE TOUR

JOHNSTON JEWELLERS

QUEEN VICTORIA MARKET

PG.37

Enter the promo code SPRING when booking online to receive 10% off the Ultimate Foodie Tour.

50% off the regular prices of pearl, opal and diamond jewellery on presentation of this voucher.

40% OFF OPALS TIVOLI JEWELLERS

TWO-FOR-ONE PANCAKE OFFER PG.38

20% OFF GUIDED TOURS

MELBOURNE MUSEUM, SCIENCEWORKS AND IMMIGRATION MUSEUM

10% OFF DIALOGUE IN THE DARK PG.90

DIALOGUE IN THE DARK MELBOURNE

PG.91

Experience Melbourne like never before — in complete darkness.

Redeem 10% off your General Admission when presenting this coupon.

15% off return tickets on the new Arthurs Seat Eagle gondola ride on the Mornington Peninsula.

10% OFF SKYDECK ENTRY OFFER

15% OFF MID-WEEK FLIGHTS PG.80

Experience the awe-inspiring views over Melbourne from the highest viewing platform in the Southern Hemisphere.

GLOBAL BALLOONING AUSTRALIA

PG.81

Quote ‘OVG17’ when you call to book a midweek Melbourne or Yarra Valley hot air balloon flight and receive 15% off your booking.

20% OFF DELUXE ICEBAR ENTRY

SAVE UP TO 35% ON ALL TOURS

ICEBAR MELBOURNE

LAST MINUTE DAY TOURS

PG.76

The coolest place in town and Australia’s only IceBar. 20% off Deluxe Entry, includes ski gear rental, cocktail and shot.

See how long you can last at –10°C!

PG.93

Save up to 35% off RRP with top tour operators online. Great Ocean Road, Phillip Island, Yarra Valley and more. Insert code ‘OVG’ to receive an extra $5 off your tour.

$3 OFF INDIVIDUAL ADMISSION LEGOLAND® DISCOVERY CENTRE MELBOURNE

PG.64

Save 20% on adult admission plus kids admission FREE.

15% OFF ARTHURS SEAT EAGLE

EUREKA SKYDECK 88

PG.48

20% OFF THREE GREAT MUSEUMS PG.63

Go behind-the-scenes at Australia’s largest performing arts centre. Guided tours depart daily at 11am. Receive 20% off when using the promo code: SPRINGTOUR.

ARTHURS SEAT EAGLE

THE PANCAKE PARLOUR

Buy one short stack (two pancakes) and receive another short stack free.

Receive 40% off any opal jewellery.

ARTS CENTRE MELBOURNE

PG.32

20% OFF LUNA PARK FUN! PG.79

Receive $3 off admission for two people when presenting this coupon. Promo code 1871.

MELBOURNE’S LUNA PARK Enjoy every ride at Luna Park as many times as you can handle for a full day with 20% off adult or child unlimited ride tickets purchased on-site.

PG.81

TWO-FOR-ONE

20% OFF MCG EXPERIENCE

MELBOURNE RIVER CRUISES

PG.83

MCG TOUR AND NATIONAL SPORTS MUSEUM

Purchase one of our Sightseeing or Ferry Cruises and receive one free cruise to the same or lesser value.

25% OFF PHILLIP ISLAND 4 PARKS PASS

20% DISCOUNT

PHILLIP ISLAND NATURE PARKS

PUFFING BILLY RAILWAY

PG.95

25% off our 4 Parks Pass. Includes entry to the Penguin Parade, Antarctic Journey, Koala Conservation Centre & Churchill Island Heritage Farm.

ABORIGINAL HERITAGE WALK

20% DISCOUNT PG.95

Buy one ticket, get 50% off the second (of equal or lesser value).

SEA LIFE MELBOURNE

Experience a traditional smoking ceremony with an Indigenous guide and learn about uses of plants.

Enjoy a 20% discount on adult and child tickets purchased on-site at SEA LIFE Melbourne.

OFFER 20% OFF STRAWBERRY PICKING

20-MINUTE FREE FOOT SPA PG.90

V HOTEL SPA

KIDS ARE FREE!

LANTERN GHOST TOURS Two-for-one Ghosts of the Old City Ghost Tour.

Use code ‘Hobsons’ when booking with Australia’s largest ghost tour operator getting spooky in Williamstown, Altona & more.

20% OFF 2 ADULT RETURN TICKETS

FREE CASHMERE WOOL SCARF

PG.125

Book online and enter the coupon code on back to redeem 20% off two x adult return tickets.

Exploring Melbourne at your own pace has never been easier. Book your Redspot Enterprise car and receive a 10% discount on time and kilometres, plus a free GPS.*

CRESWICK WOOLLEN MILLS

PG.104

PG.126

Valued at $89.95 RRP.

10% DISCOUNT + FREE GPS* REDSPOT ENTERPRISE CAR RENTALS

PG.92

TWO-FOR-ONE TICKET OFFER PG.86

Children under 16 years of age receive FREE entry on weekends and Victorian school holidays and public holidays.

PORT PHILLIP FERRIES

PG.78

Melbourne’s Award Winning Spa. Enjoy your 20-minute free foot spa and complimentary tea and nibbles with every massage treatment.

Receive 20% off strawberry picking tickets for two adults when presenting this coupon.

MELBOURNE ZOO

PG.89

Present this offer to receive a 20% discount on a regular Excursion Train fare.

ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS VICTORIA

SUNNY RIDGE STRAWBERRY FARMS

PG.82

Present this coupon to receive 20% off a guided MCG Tour, visit to the National Sports Museum, or combined admission to both.

5% OFF SKYBUS TICKETS PG.119

SKYBUS Receive 5% off our City, St Kilda and Avalon services when using the VISITORGUIDE promo code online.

PG.135

10% OFF FOODIE TOUR

50% OFF OPALS, PEARLS & DIAMONDS

Queen Victoria Market 65 Victoria Street, Melbourne 9320 5822 | qvm.com.au/tours

Johnston Jewellers 124 Exhibition Street, Melbourne 9650 7434 | johnstonjewellers.com.au

T&C: Valid until 30 November 2017. Not valid with any other offer.

T&C: Excludes clearance goods. One coupon per person.

Valid until 30 November 2017.

TWO-FOR-ONE PANCAKE OFFER

40% OFF OPALS

The Pancake Parlour Level 3, Melbourne Central, Melbourne Centrepoint Arcade, Bourke Street Mall, Melbourne (down the escalators) facebook.com/thepancakeparlour

Tivoli Jewellers Shop 27, Royal Arcade, 335 Bourke Street, Melbourne 9663 0996 | tivolijewellers.com.au

T&C: Dine-in only. One coupon per person. Valid until 30 November 2017.

T&C: Not to be used in conjunction with any other offers. Not applicable to any other items. Valid until 30 November 2017.

20% OFF THREE GREAT MUSEUMS

20% OFF GUIDED TOURS

Melbourne Museum, Scienceworks and Immigration Museum 13 11 02 | museumsvictoria.com.au

Arts Centre Melbourne 100 St Kilda Road, Melbourne 1300 182 183 | artscentremelbourne.com.au

T&C: Excludes special exhibitions, Planetarium, Lightning Room and events.

Valid until 30 November 2017.

T&C: Valid for general public tours until 30 November 2017.

10% OFF DIALOGUE IN THE DARK

15% OFF ARTHURS SEAT EAGLE

Dialogue in the Dark Melbourne Harbour Town Melbourne, Level 1 (opposite ArtVo) 9854 4560 | dialogueinthedark.com.au

Arthurs Seat Eagle 1085 Arthurs Seat Road, Dromana 5987 0600 | aseagle.com.au | info@aseagle.com.au

T&C: Discount applies to full price General Admission tickets, purchased on site only with presentation of coupon. Subject to availability.

T&C: This offer is not valid with any other offer and cannot be exchanged for cash.

Please present this voucher at the ticket box. Valid until 30 November 2017.

15% OFF MID-WEEK FLIGHTS

10% OFF SKYDECK ENTRY

Global Ballooning Australia 1800 627 661 balloon@globalballooning.com.au | globalballooning.com.au

Eureka Skydeck 88 7 Riverside Quay, Southbank 9693 8888 | eurekaskydeck.com.au

T&C: Offer is for mid-week adult flights only (Mon–Fri). Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Offer valid until 1 December 2017.

T&C: Not valid for Edge experience. Valid until 31 November 2017.

SAVE UP TO 35% ON ALL TOURS

20% OFF DELUXE ICEBAR ENTRY

Last Minute Day Tours 9592 3646 | info@lastminutedaytours.com

IceBar Melbourne 319 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy 9077 9716 or 1300 ICEBAR icebarmelbourne.com | info@icebarmelbourne.com

T&C: Offer valid until 30 November 2017.

T&C: Not valid with any other offer. Must be 18 years and over.

Valid until 30 November 2017.

20% OFF LUNA PARK FUN!

$3 OFF INDIVIDUAL ADMISSION

Melbourne’s Luna Park 18 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda 9525 5033 | lunapark.com.au | justforfun@lunapark.com.au

LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Melbourne Level 2, Chadstone Shopping Centre 1341 Dandenong Road, Chadstone 1800 803 297 | legolanddiscoverycentre.com.au

T&C: Valid for up to four people. Not valid for Family Passes or tickets purchased online. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Valid until 31 December 2017.

T&C: This voucher provides $3 off entry for up to two individual admissions at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre. Adults must be accompanied by a child.

Valid until 31 December 2017.

20% OFF MCG EXPERIENCE

TWO-FOR-ONE

MCG Tour and National Sports Museum Gate 3, MCG, Yarra Park, Jolimont 9657 8879 | mcg.org.au | contactus@nsm.org.au

Melbourne River Cruises Southbank Promenade, Berth 5 (River’s Edge near Langham Hotel) 8610 2600 | melbcruises.com.au

T&C: Promotion not valid when MCG is in event mode. Operating hours vary on event days, please visit website for details. Code: GUIDE. Valid until 30 November 2017.

T&C: Valid until 30 November 2017. Not valid with any other offer.

20% DISCOUNT

25% OFF PHILLIP ISLAND 4 PARKS PASS

Puffing Billy Steam Railway 1 Old Monbulk Road, Belgrave 9757 0700 | puffingbilly.com.au | info@pbr.org.au

Phillip Island Nature Parks 1019 Ventnor Road, Ventnor 5951 2800 | penguins.org.au | bookings@penguins.org.au

T&C: Valid for two people per offer. Valid for travel until 30 November 2017 (excluding 23 September — 8 October 2017). Excludes family fares, catered trains, special events and group bookings.

T&C: Valid until 30 November 2017. Cannot be used with any other offer or discount. Offer valid for Adult, Child & Family tickets only.

20% DISCOUNT

ABORIGINAL HERITAGE WALK

SEA LIFE Melbourne Corner King & Flinders Streets, Melbourne 1800 026 576 | melbourneaquarium.com.au

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria Melbourne Gardens, Birdwood Avenue 9252 2429 | rbg.vic.gov.au | mbookings@rbg.vic.gov.au

T&C: Not valid with any other offer, or online purchase.

Valid until 30 November 2017.

T&C: Valid until 30 November 2017. Second ticket must be of equal or lesser value. Not redeemable for any other tour.

20-MINUTE FREE FOOT SPA

20% OFF STRAWBERRY PICKING

V Hotel Spa Lower Ground, 630 Little Collins Street, Melbourne 9629 6600 | vhotelspa.com.au | relax@vhotelspa.com.au

Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm 244 Shands Road, Main Ridge 5989 4500 | sunnyridge.com.au

T&C: Limit one use per voucher. Not valid with any other offer.

Valid only for massage or facial service.

T&C: 20% off standard adult tickets only for up to two people. Not valid during December, January or Public Holidays. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. For one transaction only. Valid until: 30 November 2017.

TWO-FOR-ONE TICKET OFFER

KIDS ARE FREE!

Lantern Ghost Tours 1300 390 119 | lanternghosttours.com | info@lanternghosttours.com

Melbourne Zoo Melbourne Zoo, Elliott Avenue, Parkville 1300 966 784 | zoo.org.au/melbourne

T&C: Excludes dinner packages. Adult tickets only. Offer ends 30 June 2018.

FREE CASHMERE WOOL SCARF

20% OFF 2 ADULT RETURN TICKETS

Creswick Woollen Mills Creswick Mill, Hawthorn, Elsternwick, Melbourne City, Daylesford, Beechworth & Sassafras 1800 338 837 | creswickwool.com.au

Port Phillip Ferries Departing Docklands, Victoria Harbour to Portarlington on the Bellarine Peninsula 9514 8959 | portphillipferries.com.au

T&C: When you spend over $150. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Must join the Loyalty club.

T&C: Book online and enter code ‘PPFOVG’ to redeem offer. Not valid with other offers. For one return use only. Excludes public holidays. Valid until 10 December 2017.

5% OFF SKYBUS TICKETS

10% DISCOUNT + FREE GPS*

SkyBus 1300 SKYBUS | skybus.com.au

Redspot Enterprise Car Rentals Melbourne Airport 30–60 Little Collins Street Melbourne 124 Thistlewaite Street, South Melbourne 1300 668 810 | redspot.com.au

T&C: Promo code valid online with City, St Kilda or Avalon services only.

T&C: GPS subject to availability. Present this coupon for discount. Cannot be used with any other offer. Terms & Conditions apply. Offer valid until 30 November 2017.

ET CK TI S M

O FR

Hanna is newly wealthy, newly widowed, and suddenly, she’s the hottest catch in town.

$5 *

5

15–25 November Arts Centre Melbourne

opera.org.au artscentremelbourne.com.au PRINCIPAL PARTNER

*Booking fees apply

HERO PARTNERS

GOVERNMENT PARTNERS